Headgear for breathing mask

ABSTRACT

An interface assembly includes an interface, such as a mask, that is secured to a head using a headgear assembly. The headgear assembly can include at least one halo portion and a plurality of straps. The headgear assembly can include both a front halo portion and a rear halo portion. In some arrangements, the headgear and mask define an adjustable closed loop. In some arrangements, the headgear can include one or more rigid portions that contact the user&#39;s face to at least partially isolate a seal of the mask from tightening forces applied to the headgear. In some arrangements, the mask is an oral-nasal mask and the headgear applies a force to the mask comprising an upward force component. In some arrangements, the headgear can be contoured to the user&#39;s head.

INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE TO ANY PRIORITY APPLICATIONS

Any and all applications for which a foreign or domestic priority claimis identified in the Application Data Sheet as filed with the presentapplication are hereby incorporated by reference and made a part of thepresent disclosure.

BACKGROUND Field

The present invention generally relates to headgear of breathing masks.More particularly, certain aspects of the present invention relate toheadgear used with breathing masks that seal under the nose and aroundthe mouth.

Description of the Related Art

Breathing masks come in many different configurations. To secure thebreathing masks to the user, headgear can be attached to the masks.While different styles of headgear are available, the headgear and thebreathing masks ideally cooperate to provide a desired interfaceassembly.

SUMMARY

In some configurations, masks can be provided that seal around a mouthof a user and on an underside of a nose of the user. Such a mask canprovide pressurized air flow to both the nose and the mouth of the user.In some configurations, the mask may omit a forehead support, which isdifferent from many of the nasal masks and many of the oral-nasal masksavailable in the market.

With such masks, the headgear has to overcome one or more of a number ofchallenges. For instance, the nasal sealing surface should be secured upagainst the lower surface of the user's nose. Securing the nasal sealingsurface against the nose helps achieve an effective seal withoutapplying excessive force to the nose. To achieve this, the headgear canprovide a force to the mask that is at least partially perpendicular tothe underside of the nose.

In some configurations, the lack of a forehead support means that themask may be prone to rocking on the face. In such configurations, theheadgear can hold the seal against the face evenly in such a manner thatthe likelihood is reduced of significant rocking of the top away fromthe nose or movement of the bottom of the mask away from the chin.

An aspect involves an interface assembly including a mask and aheadgear. The mask includes a seal that surrounds and delivers a flow ofbreathing gas to a mouth of a user. The headgear secures the mask to theface of the user. The headgear includes relatively rigid portions thatcontact the cheeks of the user and support the mask relative to the faceof the user. The relatively rigid portions have sufficient rigidity tomaintain a position of the mask and limit compression of the seal inresponse to tightening of the headgear.

In some configurations, a cheek pad positioned on at least askin-contacting side of each of the relatively rigid portions. The cheekpad can be contoured. The cheek pad can surround the relatively rigidportion.

In some configurations, the headgear further comprises an upper arm orstrap extending rearwardly from each of the relatively rigid portionstoward a location generally above the user's ear.

In some configurations, the headgear includes a rear halo portionsurrounding a parietal region of the user's head and coupled to theupper arms or straps. A portion of the rear halo portion, the upper armsor straps, and the mask can cooperate to form a front halo portion.

In some configurations, the headgear comprises a crown strap, whichforms a part of each of the front halo portion and the rear haloportion, and a rear strap, which forms a part of the rear halo portion.

In some configurations, at least portions of the upper arm, the crownstrap and the rear strap are constructed from a relatively rigidmaterial or a relatively non-stretch material.

In some configurations, the headgear includes a pair of rigid sections,each rigid section comprising an upper arm, a portion of the crown strapand a portion of the rear strap, wherein each of the crown strap and therear strap comprises adjustment arrangements that connect the rigidsections to one another and permit adjustment of the front halo portionand the rear halo portion. The adjustment arrangements can compriseflexible straps.

In some configurations, each of the rigid sections is covered by a softmaterial padding. The soft material padding can be overmolded onto therigid sections.

In some configurations, the mask is supported relative to the headgearby a rotational coupling. The mask can be secured in a rotationalposition relative to the headgear. The mask can be secured in therotational position by a lock or detent mechanism incorporated into therotational coupling. In some configurations, the mask is secured in therotational position by a strap of the headgear.

In some configurations, at least one quick-release mechanism permitsseparation of two portions of the interface assembly to open or increasea circumference of the interface assembly. The quick-release mechanismcan include a tether between the two portions of the interface assembly.The tether can be elastic. In some configurations, the quick-releasemechanism comprises a clip that connects the headgear to the mask. Theclip can define at least two spaced engagement points with the mask. Insome configurations, a magnetic coupling guides the clip into positionrelative to the mask. The quick-release mechanism can include a clipthat connects the headgear to the mask, and the tether can be hiddenbetween the clip and the mask when the clip is secured to the mask. Insome configurations, the quick-release mechanism comprises a releasebuckle.

In some configurations, a position of the seal is adjustable relative toa frame or support structure of the mask to which the relatively rigidportions are connected. A dial adjuster can be provided that adjusts theposition of the seal.

An aspect involves an interface assembly including a mask and aheadgear. The mask includes a seal that surrounds and delivers a flow ofbreathing gas to a mouth of a user. The headgear secures the mask to theuser's face. A closed loop adjustment mechanism couples a first portionof the interface assembly to a second portion of the interface assemblyand is movable between a contracted orientation and an elongatedorientation to vary an overall circumference of the interface assemblywhile maintaining a closed loop. In the contracted orientation, the maskis supported against the face of the user and, in the elongatedorientation, the interface assembly can be applied to or removed fromthe head of the user. At least a portion of the closed loop adjustmentmechanism is located on the mask.

In some configurations, the closed loop adjustment mechanism comprises aloop that forms a portion of the circumference of the interfaceassembly, wherein the loop can be secured to the mask at first andsecond spaced locations to define a first section length, and whereinthe loop can be disconnected from the second location to define a secondsection length that is greater than the first section length to increasethe circumference of the interface assembly. In some configurations, thesecond location can be a retention cleat that the loop can be loopedaround. In some configurations, the second location can be an opening orbar that is engaged by a clip connected to the loop. The first locationcan be a friction guide through which the loop passes, wherein thefriction guide frictionally engages the loop to maintain a desiredrelative position between the loop and the mask in response to normaloperational forces.

In some configurations, the closed loop adjustment mechanism comprises aclip that connects the headgear to the mask. The clip can define atleast two spaced engagement points with the mask. In someconfigurations, a magnetic coupling that guides the clip into positionrelative to the mask. The closed loop adjustment mechanism can include atether between the clip and the mask. In some configurations, the tetheris elastic. The closed loop adjustment can include a clip on each sideof the mask and the tether can extend between the two clips. In someconfigurations, the tether is hidden between the clip and the mask whenthe clip is secured to the mask.

In some configurations, the closed loop adjustment mechanism comprises afolding clasp having multiple segments movable between an open positionand a closed position. In some configurations, at least two segments ofthe folding clasp are nested in the closed position of the foldingclasp. In some configurations, one of the segments defines a generallyU-shape and a second one of the segments is positioned within a centralspace of the U-shaped segment in a closed position of the folding clasp.In some configurations, one of the segments is carried by the mask and asecond one of the segments is carried by the headgear. A lockingadjuster can be provided between the second one of the segments and theheadgear to permit adjustment of a relative position of the foldingclasp and the headgear. In some configurations, the folding clasp locksin the closed position.

An aspect involves an interface assembly including a mask and aheadgear. The mask includes a seal that surrounds and delivers a flow ofbreathing gas to a mouth of a user. The headgear secures the mask to theuser's face and includes at least one adjustment loop. A sliding bucklereceives a portion of the headgear within a tortuous pathway and iscoupled to a portion of the adjustment loop, wherein movement of thesliding buckle along the portion of the headgear alters a size of theadjustment loop to alter an overall size of the headgear.

In some configurations, a pull tab is coupled to the sliding buckle tofacilitate movement of the sliding buckle. In some configurations, acoupler secures the pull tab relative to the sliding buckle when not inuse. The coupler can be a magnetic coupler.

In some configurations, the pull tab is slidably mounted to the slidingbuckle such that the pull tab can move relative to the sliding buckle ina direction of movement of the sliding buckle.

In some configurations, at least one clip that couples the headgear tothe mask. The clip can be tethered to the mask.

In some configurations, clip defines at least two spaced engagementpoints with the mask.

An aspect involves an interface assembly including a mask and aheadgear. The mask includes a seal that surrounds and delivers a flow ofbreathing gas to a mouth of a user. The headgear secures the mask to theuser's face. The headgear is constructed from at least two flat portionsof material that are connected along sew lines to form a seam, whereinthe sew lines of the portions of material do not have the same shape,such that, when connected, tension and/or compression is introduced intothe material to provide the headgear with a contoured shape.

In some configurations, the sew lines are defined by edges of theportions of material.

In some configurations, the connection between the portions extends in avertical direction along a rear portion of the headgear.

An aspect involves an interface assembly including a mask and aheadgear. The mask includes a seal that surrounds and delivers a flow ofbreathing gas to a mouth of a user. The headgear secures the mask to theface of the user. The headgear includes a rear halo portion surroundinga parietal region of the user's head and the headgear cooperates withthe mask to form a front halo portion surrounding a frontal region ofthe user's head. The headgear includes a relatively stretchable portionand a relatively non-stretchable portion, wherein the relativelynon-stretchable portion surrounds at least one of the front halo portionand the rear halo portion.

In some configurations, the relatively non-stretchable portion surroundseach of the front halo portion and the rear halo portion.

In some configurations, one or both of the front halo portion and therear halo portion are adjustable in circumference.

In some configurations, a break-fit assembly permits the headgear tomove between a normal configuration and an enlarged configuration. Thebreak-fit assembly can include a separation between a first portion ofthe headgear and a second portion of the headgear, wherein the first andsecond portions are held together in the normal configuration and aremoved apart in the enlarged configuration. The first and second portionscan be held together by a magnetic closure.

In some configurations, the first and second portions comprise first andsecond flaps, respectively. In some configurations, the first and secondflaps are joined by a pleat.

In some configurations, the front halo portion connects to each side ofthe mask at a first location, wherein the headgear further comprisesstraps on each side of the headgear that each connect to a respectiveside of the mask at a second location spaced from the first location.The first and second locations can be upper and lower locations,respectively.

In some configurations, strengthening features are formed into orotherwise secured to the relatively stretchable portion of the headgear.

An aspect involves an interface assembly including a mask and aheadgear. The mask includes a seal that surrounds and delivers a flow ofbreathing gas to a mouth of a user, the mask comprising a supportstructure having an elongated slot. The headgear secures the mask to theface of the user, wherein the headgear comprises an end portion thatpasses through the elongated slot of the mask and is folded to form aloop, the loop having a fold that supports the mask, wherein the endportion can be adjusted in an upward or downward direction to adjust anangle of the mask relative to the headgear.

In some configurations, the end portion defines a tapered shape.

In some configurations, the end portion can be coupled to the headgearto secure the mask in a desired angular position.

In some configurations, the elongated slot is linear in shape.

In another aspect, the invention involves the headgear of any of theabove-described interface assemblies configured for use with any of theabove-described interfaces or any other compatible interface.

In a further aspect, the invention consists in components as hereindescribed with reference to any one or more of the drawings.

The term “comprising” as used in this specification and claims means“consisting at least in part of”. When interpreting each statement inthis specification and claims that includes the term “comprising”,features other than that or those prefaced by the term may also bepresent. Related terms such as “comprise” and “comprises” are to beinterpreted in the same manner.

This invention may also be said broadly to consist in the parts,elements and features referred to or indicated in the specification ofthe application and/or statements of invention, individually orcollectively, and any or all combinations of any two or more said parts,elements features or statements of invention, and where specificintegers are mentioned herein which have known equivalents in the art towhich this invention relates, such known equivalents are deemed to beincorporated herein as if individually set forth.

The invention consists in the foregoing and also envisages constructionsof which the following gives examples only.

In this specification where reference has been made to patentspecifications, other external documents, or other sources ofinformation, this is generally for the purpose of providing a contextfor discussing the features of the invention. Unless specifically statedotherwise, reference to such external documents is not to be construedas an admission that such documents, or such sources of information, inany jurisdiction, are prior art, or form part of the common generalknowledge in the art.

Further aspects and advantages of the present invention will becomeapparent from the ensuing description which is given by way of exampleonly.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

These and other features, aspects and advantages of the presentdisclosure are described with reference to the drawings of preferredembodiments, which embodiments are intended to illustrate and not tolimit the disclosure.

FIG. 1 is a side view of an interface assembly having an interface, suchas a mask, and a headgear.

FIG. 2 is a front view of the interface assembly of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a rear view of the interface assembly of FIG. 1.

FIGS. 4A-4F illustrate various possible cross-sections of a headgear ofthe interface assembly of FIG. 1.

FIGS. 5A and 5B illustrate a break-fit arrangement of the interfaceassembly of FIG. 1.

FIG. 6 is a side view of an interface assembly having an interface, suchas a mask, and a headgear.

FIG. 7 is a side view of an interface assembly having an interface, suchas a mask, and a headgear.

FIG. 8 is a front view of the interface assembly of FIG. 7.

FIG. 9 is a rear view of the interface assembly of FIG. 7.

FIGS. 10A-10E are side views of several interface assemblies, eachhaving an interface, such as a mask, and a headgear.

FIGS. 11A-11C are side views of several interface assemblies, eachhaving an interface, such as a mask, and a headgear.

FIGS. 12A-12I are side views of several interface assemblies, eachhaving an interface, such as a mask, and a headgear.

FIG. 13 is a side view of an interface assembly having an interface,such as a mask, and a headgear.

FIG. 14 is a front view of the interface assembly of FIG. 13.

FIG. 15 is a rear view of the interface assembly of FIG. 13.

FIG. 16 is a side view of an interface assembly having an interface,such as a mask, and a headgear.

FIG. 17 is a side view of an interface assembly having an interface,such as a mask, and a headgear.

FIG. 18 is a side view of an interface assembly having an interface,such as a mask, and a headgear.

FIG. 19 is an exploded view of the rotational adjuster of the interfaceassembly of FIG. 18.

FIG. 20 is a side view of an interface assembly having an interface,such as a mask, and a headgear.

FIG. 21 is a side view of an interface assembly having an interface,such as a mask, and a headgear.

FIG. 22A is a side view of an interface assembly having an interface,such as a mask, and a headgear.

FIG. 22B is a side view of an interface assembly having an interface,such as a mask, and a headgear.

FIG. 23 is a side view of an interface assembly having an interface,such as a mask, and a headgear.

FIG. 24 is a front view of the interface assembly of FIG. 23.

FIG. 25 is a side view of an interface assembly having an interface,such as a mask, and a headgear.

FIG. 26 is a side view of an interface assembly having an interface,such as a mask, and a headgear.

FIG. 27 is a cross-sectional view of a first portion of the headgear ofthe interface assembly of FIG. 26.

FIGS. 28A-28C illustrate several possible cross-sections of a secondportion of the headgear of the interface assembly of FIG. 26.

FIG. 29 is a side view of an interface assembly having an interface,such as a mask, and a headgear. The interface assembly has a rotationalcoupling between the mask and the headgear.

FIG. 30 is an exploded view of the rotational coupling of the interfaceassembly of FIG. 29.

FIG. 31 is a side view of an interface assembly having an interface,such as a mask, and a headgear. The headgear includes a cheek pad.

FIG. 32 is a perspective view of a cheek pad portion of the headgear ofthe interface assembly of FIG. 31.

FIG. 33 is a side view of an interface assembly having an interface,such as a mask, and a headgear.

FIG. 34 is a side view of an interface assembly having an interface,such as a mask, and a headgear.

FIG. 35 is a side view of an interface assembly having an interface,such as a mask, and a headgear. The interface assembly includesquick-release mechanisms between the headgear and the mask.

FIG. 36 is a side view of an alternative quick-release mechanism.

FIG. 37 is a side view of an interface assembly having an interface,such as a mask, and a headgear.

FIG. 38 is a side view of an interface assembly having an interface,such as a mask, and a headgear.

FIG. 39 is a rear view of the interface assembly of FIG. 38.

FIG. 40 is a side view of an interface assembly having an interface,such as a mask, and a headgear.

FIG. 41 is a side view of an interface assembly having an interface,such as a mask, and a headgear.

FIG. 42 is a front view of the interface assembly of FIG. 41.

FIG. 43 is a side view of an interface assembly having an interface,such as a mask, and a headgear.

FIG. 44 is a side view of an interface assembly having an interface,such as a mask, and a headgear.

FIG. 45 is a front view of the interface assembly of FIG. 44.

FIG. 46 is a side view of an interface assembly having an interface,such as a mask, and a headgear.

FIG. 47 is a side view of an interface assembly having an interface,such as a mask, and a headgear. The headgear includes a low profileadjustment mechanism.

FIG. 48 is an enlarged view of the low profile adjustment mechanism ofFIG. 47.

FIG. 49 is a side view of an interface assembly having an interface,such as a mask, and a headgear.

FIG. 50 is a perspective view of an interface assembly having aninterface, such as a mask, and a headgear. The interface assemblyincludes a quick-release mechanism between the mask and the headgear.

FIG. 51 is a perspective view of an interface assembly having analternative quick-release mechanism.

FIG. 52 is a perspective view of an interface assembly having anotheralternative quick-release mechanism.

FIG. 53 is a perspective view of an interface assembly having yetanother alternative quick-release mechanism.

FIG. 54 is a perspective view of an interface assembly having stillanother alternative quick-release mechanism.

FIG. 55 is a perspective view of an interface assembly having anotheralternative quick-release mechanism including a clip.

FIG. 56 is a perspective view of the mask of the interface assembly ofFIG. 55.

FIG. 57 is a perspective view of an interior surface of the clip of thequick-release mechanism of the interface assembly of FIG. 55.

FIG. 58 is an exploded perspective view of an interface assembly havinga quick-release mechanism.

FIG. 58 is a perspective view of an interface assembly having aquick-release mechanism, which includes an elasticated tether thatcouples the clip to a remainder of the mask.

FIG. 59 is a perspective view of an interface assembly having analternative quick-release mechanism with an elasticated tether.

FIG. 60 is a perspective view of an interface assembly having anotheralternative quick-release mechanism with an elasticated tether.

FIG. 61 is a perspective view of the interface assembly of FIG. 60 withthe quick-release mechanism in a disconnected state.

FIG. 62 is a side view of an interface assembly having an interface,such as a mask, and a headgear. The interface assembly includes afolding clasp quick-release mechanism between the mask and the headgear.

FIG. 63 is a top view of the folding clasp quick-release mechanism ofFIG. 62 in a closed state.

FIG. 64 is a top view of the folding clasp quick-release mechanism ofFIG. 62 in an open state.

FIG. 65 is a perspective view of an interface assembly with analternative folding clasp quick-release mechanism connecting theheadgear and the mask. The folding clasp quick-release mechanism isshown in a closed state.

FIG. 66 is a perspective view of the interface assembly of FIG. 65 withthe folding clasp quick-release mechanism in an open state.

FIG. 67 is a cross-sectional view of the folding clasp quick-releasemechanism of FIG. 65.

FIG. 68 is an enlarged view of a headgear strap adjustment assembly ofthe interface assembly of FIG. 65.

FIG. 69 is a side view of an interface assembly having an interface,such as a mask, and a headgear. A sliding buckle adjustment mechanismpermits adjustment of the headgear.

FIG. 70 is a cross-sectional view of the sliding buckle adjustmentmechanism of FIG. 69.

FIG. 71 is a perspective view of the sliding buckle adjustment mechanismof FIG. 69.

FIG. 72 is a cross-sectional view of an alternative sliding buckleadjustment mechanism having a slidable pull tab.

FIG. 73 illustrates portions of a contoured headgear prior to joining.

FIG. 74 illustrates the portions of FIG. 73 joined to create a contouredheadgear.

FIG. 75 is a front perspective view of an interface assembly having aninterface, such as a mask, and a headgear. The headgear includes atleast one relatively rigid section.

FIG. 76 is a side view of the interface assembly of FIG. 75.

FIG. 77 is a rear perspective view of the interface assembly of FIG. 75.

FIG. 78 is top view of an adjustment mechanism within a crown strapportion of the headgear of FIG. 75.

FIG. 79 is a rear view of an adjustment mechanism within a rear strapportion of the headgear of FIG. 75.

FIG. 80 is a perspective view of an alternative adjustment mechanism ofFIGS. 78 and 79 having a break-fit arrangement with a tether to coupleportions of the adjustment mechanism.

FIG. 81 is a top view of the interface assembly of FIGS. 75-79illustrating a difference between an untightened headgear (left side)and a tightened headgear (right side).

FIG. 82 is a front view illustrating a location of contact of a rigidportion of the headgear of the interface assembly of FIGS. 75-79 on auser's face.

FIG. 83 is a top view illustrating the location of contact of FIG. 82.

FIG. 84 is a side view illustrating a location of an axis of rotation ofthe mask of the interface assembly of FIGS. 75-79.

FIG. 85 is a side view of a mask of the interface assembly of FIGS.75-79 illustrating a range of rotational adjustment of the mask.

FIGS. 86A-86G are cross-sectional views of a portion of the headgear ofFIGS. 75-79 illustrating several possible shapes of a rigid portion anda pad.

FIG. 87 is a side view of the headgear of FIGS. 75-79 illustrating afront halo portion and a rear halo portion.

FIGS. 88A-88F illustrate alternative headgear arrangements relative toFIG. 87 each having a front halo portion and a rear halo portion.

FIGS. 89A-89F illustrate several possible locations for break-fitassemblies within a headgear, such as the headgear of FIGS. 75-79.

FIG. 90 is a side view of a headgear for an interface assemblyillustrating optional locations for relatively rigid and relativelynon-rigid portions of the headgear.

FIG. 91 is a side view of an interface assembly having an interface,such as a mask, and a headgear. The interface assembly includes arotational coupling between the mask and the headgear.

FIG. 92 is a perspective view of an interface assembly having aninterface, such as a mask, and a headgear. The interface assemblyincludes an adjustment arrangement for a position of the mask.

FIG. 93 is a perspective view of an interface assembly having aninterface, such as a mask, and a headgear. The interface assemblyincludes a cheek pad in the headgear and a quick-release mechanismbetween the mask and the headgear.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

With reference to FIGS. 1-3, an interface assembly 100 is illustrated.The interface assembly 100 can have any suitable configuration. Theillustrated interface assembly 100 includes an interface portion, orinterface 102, and a headgear portion, or headgear 104. The illustratedinterface 102 is a nasal-oral mask but, in some configurations, certainfeatures, aspects and advantages of the disclosed embodiments can beused with any type of interface, including but not limited to full facemasks, nasal masks, nasal pillows, oral masks and cannulas. Accordingly,the interface 102 is also referred to herein as a “mask” forconvenience. The use of the term “mask” is intended to cover interfacesgenerally, and can be replaced with the term “interface” unlessindicated otherwise, either explicitly or by the context of thedisclosure. Examples of nasal-oral masks are provided in PCT PatentPublication No. WO2013/066195, the entirety of which is incorporated byreference herein.

The illustrated mask 102 generally comprises a support structure, suchas a frame 106, which supports a seal 108. The mask 102 (e.g., the frame106 and/or the seal 108) can be connected to a supply conduit (notshown), which in some configurations can be connected to the frame by anelbow. The supply conduit can be used to supply breathing gases to auser through the seal 108. The seal 108 or a combination of the seal 108and the frame 106 can define a chamber that receives the breathing gasesfrom the supply conduit.

As described above, in some configurations, the mask 102 can seal arounda mouth of a user and on an underside of a nose of the user. Such a mask102 can provide pressurized air flow to both the nose and the mouth ofthe user. With such masks 102, the headgear 104 preferably secures thenasal sealing surface up against the lower surface of the user's nose.Securing the nasal sealing surface against the nose helps achieve aneffective seal without applying excessive force to the nose. As the airpressure within the chamber of the mask 102 increases, the force appliedby the headgear 104 attempts to restrain the mask 102 from lifting fromthe face. As a result of the mask 102 being sealed against the undersideof the user's nose, the force applied to the mask 102 as a result of theair pressure has a downwardly-directed component. However, in general,the largest component of the force is directed away from the user'sface. To address the forces acting on the mask as a result of the airpressure, the headgear 104 preferably provides a force to the mask 102that has at least a small upwardly-directed component. In someconfigurations, the headgear 104 can provide a force to the mask 102that is directed generally or substantially perpendicular to theunderside of the user's nose.

Preferably, the mask 102 comprises mounting locations or mounting points110. The mounting points 110 can be formed on at least one of the frame106, the seal 108, the conduit and the elbow. Any suitable mountingpoints 110 can be used to facilitate connection between the mask 102 andthe headgear 104, which will be described below. Often, the mountingpoints 110 are located on a relatively rigid portion of the mask 102,such as the frame 106 or another support structure for the seal 108.Therefore, references to the frame 106, in the context of the headgear104 being coupled at the mounting points 110 on the frame 106, can referto any support structure of the mask 102 to which the headgear 104 iscoupled, such as a seal housing, for example.

In some configurations, the mounting points 110 facilitate easyconnection and disconnection of the headgear 104 and the mask 102. Insome configurations, the headgear 104 and the mask 102 can be joinedtogether such that the headgear 104 is not generally removable from oneor more component of the mask 102. In some configurations, the headgear104 and the mask 102 can be integrally formed. In some configurations,two mounting points 110 are provided on each side of the mask 102 andare spaced from one another in a vertical direction or height directionof the mask 102.

In some configurations, the headgear 104 can comprise a front haloportion 112 and a rear halo portion 114. Preferably, the headgear 104comprises at least the rear halo portion 114. The front halo portion 112can be configured to generally encircle the frontal region or upper halfof the face of the user and resist rearward and downward directedforces. The rear halo portion 114 can be configured to generallyencircle the parietal region of the head and resist forward and downwarddirected forces. In some configurations, the rear halo portion 114, whencoupled to the mask 102, can resist a substantial portion or an entiretyof the magnitude and/or direction of forces applied to the mask 102during use. Thus, in some configurations, the rear halo portion 114 canbe utilized without the front halo portion 112. However, the front haloportion 112 can assist in inhibiting or preventing rotation of theinterface assembly 100 on the user's head. The front halo portion 112can also resist downward forces to support the weight of the mask 102and other generally downward forces, such as hose pull forces, forexample. Thus, in many applications, the use of a front halo portion 112can be desirable. In some configurations, the front halo structure 112and the rear halo structure 114 are generally adjacent to each other. Insome such configurations, the front halo structure 112 and the rear halostructure 114 can share a common crown strap 116.

In some configurations, under-ear straps or ear straps 118 can extendfrom lower portions of the rear halo portion 114 on each side of theheadgear 104. As shown in the illustrated configurations, lower orforward strap portions 120 of the front halo structure 112 can beattached to the upper section of the mask 102 at mounting points 110 oneach side of the mask 102. The forward strap portions 120 of the fronthalo structure 112 can be angled such that the force applied by theforward strap portions 120 will have an upwardly-directed component. Asdescribed above, in some configurations, the force can be approximatelyor largely perpendicular to the underside of the user's nose. Such anarrangement can assist in creating a seal between the mask 102 and theunderside of the user's nose. The attachment location and the angle willhelp to address both of the challenges mention above.

The ear straps 118 can be attached to the lower portion of the mask 102at mounting points 110 on each side of the mask 102. By attaching theear straps 118 to the lower portion of the mask 102, forces applied bythe ear straps 118 can cooperate with forces applied by the forwardstrap portions 120 of the front halo portion 112 to influence an angularposition of the mask 102, as described below. The forward strap portions120 of the front halo portion 112 can be referred to as “upper straps”relative to the ear straps 118, which are the relative “lower straps”and can be referred to as such herein. The balancing of forces canreduce the likelihood of mask rocking.

With reference to FIG. 1, the mask 102 can be viewed as having an upperpoint P1 and a lower point P2 at which the mask 102 contacts the user'sface. The upper point P1 can be generally or substantially at anintersection between the underside of the user's nose and upper lip. Thelower point P2 can be located on the user's chin. Adjustment of theforward strap portions 120 tends to rotate the mask 102 about the lowerpoint P2. Adjustment of the ear straps 118 tends to rotate the mask 102about the upper point P1. Thus, the existence of both of the straps 118,120 tends to inhibit or prevent undesired rotation about either pointP1, P2 when the headgear 104 is properly adjusted.

The headgear 104 can apply a force Fl to the mask 102 through the upperstraps 120 and a force F2 to the mask 102 through the lower straps 118.The force F1 can be at least be oriented upward relative to horizontalor relative to a line that is perpendicular to a line passing throughthe points P1 and P2 (or a line defined by upper and lower points on themask seal 108). The force F2 can be generally rearward, horizontal oralong a line that is perpendicular to a line passing through the pointsP1 and P2 (or a line defined by upper and lower points on the mask seal108). The force F1 can be between about 0 degrees and about 90 degrees.However, because the force applied to the headgear 104 by the mask 102as a result of air pressure is primarily away from the user's face,preferably, a horizontal component FH of the force F1 is at least aslarge as or larger than a vertical component FV of the force F1. Thus,the angle of the force F1 can be about 45 degrees or less. However, if agreater vertical component FV is desired, such as to increase sealingforce on the underside of the user's nose, the angle of the force F1 canbe adjusted.

In some configurations, one or more of the upper straps 120 and thelower straps 118 used to attach to the mask 102 may be adjustable inlength. In some configurations, both of the upper straps 120 and thelower straps 118 can be adjustable in length. However, in theillustrated arrangement, the length of the upper straps 120 is fixed andthe overall circumference of the front halo portion 112 is adjusted bythe central adjustment feature 122, which also adjusts the circumferenceof the rear halo portion 114. The lower straps 118 are adjustable topermit a rotational position of the mask 102 (relative to the uppermounting points 110 of the upper straps 120) to be adjusted.

In some configurations, the crown strap 116 can have a centraladjustment feature 122. The central adjustment feature 122 can allow thesize of the headgear 104 to be modified. The central adjustment feature122 can have any suitable configuration. In some configurations, thecentral adjustment feature 122 can include a buckle component andportions of the crown strap 116 can pass through the buckle and doubleover another portion of the crown strap 116. In some configurations, thecentral adjustment feature 122 can be as simple as providing a hook andloop connection between two portions the crown strap 116.

The headgear 104 can be formed of any suitable materials. In someconfigurations, at least a portion of the headgear 104 will be made of amaterial with some stretch. In some configurations, the headgear 104 isformed of a stretchable material, such as Breath-o-prene®, for examplebut without limitation. Breath-o-prene® is a heat laminated materialmade of polyurethane foam with an outer layer of nylon and spandex. Insome configurations, the headgear 104 may be thermoformed to providestructure and support.

The headgear 104 also may comprise non-stretch sections 124. In someconfigurations, the non-stretch sections 124 can extend around theperimeters of one or both of the halo portions 112, 114. In theillustrated arrangement, non-stretch sections 124 extend around anentire perimeter of the front halo portion 112 (with the exception ofthe mask 102) and an entire perimeter of the rear halo portion 114. Insome configurations, non-stretch sections can also be incorporated inthe lower strap 118. The non-stretch sections 124 can reduce thelikelihood of the front halo portion 112 and/or rear halo portion 114stretching over the head relative to a similar arrangement ofstretchable material. Stretching of the rear halo portion 114 can causethe mask 102 to move away from or slip off the face. Stretching of thefront halo portion 112 can allow rotation of the headgear 104 on theuser's head. As used herein, the term “non-stretch” in the context ofthe non-stretch sections 124 refers to sections that are lessstretchable than the stretchable or other portions of the headgear 104.In some configurations, the non-stretch sections 124 can resistsubstantial stretching or elongation in response to normal or expectedforces applied to the mask 102 or headgear 104 to retain the haloportion(s) 112, 114 in place on the user's head, but may still besomewhat stretchable. The non-stretch sections 124 can reduce thelikelihood of the upper sealing surface of the seal 108 being pulledaway from the nose. In some configurations, the non-stretch sections 124may be included in other regions of the headgear 104. Stretchablematerial can refer to materials typically used in headgear assemblies orcan refer to materials that exhibit greater stretch than materialstypically used in headgear assemblies.

FIGS. 4A-4F illustrates some possible strap cross-sections but anysuitable strap configuration or combination of configurations can beused. In FIGS. 4A-4F, the hashed regions 124 can represent a materialthat is largely or relatively non-stretch or semi-rigid. The non-hashedregions 126 can represent a softer and/or more stretch/less rigid/moreelastic material, such as Breath-o-prene®, for example. In theillustrations shown in FIGS. 4A-4F, it is intended that the lower edgeof each cross-section represents the surface that would be in contactwith the patient's head. In most configurations, at least part of thesurface that comes into contact with the patients head can be formedfrom or of a softer material.

In FIG. 4A, the strap cross-section includes a non-stretch region 124 atat least one lateral edge and, preferably, at each lateral edge of thestrap. A stretch region 126 extends between the laterally-spacednon-stretch regions 124. In FIG. 4B, the strap cross-section includes acentral non-stretch region 124 with stretch regions 126 on each side ofthe non-stretch region 124. In FIG. 4C, the strap cross-section includesa plurality of spaced non-stretch regions 124 alternating with stretchregions 126. In the illustrated arrangement, the stretch regions 126 arepositioned on each lateral edge and in the center with non-stretchregions 124 between the center and edge stretch regions 126. In FIG. 4D,a non-stretch region 124 extends in a width direction of the strapcross-section. In the illustrated arrangement, the regions are layeredwith a stretch region 126 on at least one side and, preferably, on eachside of the non-stretch region 124. In FIG. 4E, a non-stretch region 124and a stretch region 126 extend in a width direction of the strap andeach occupies one-half of the strap thickness. In the illustratedarrangement, the stretch region 126 is positioned closest to the user'shead. In FIG. 4F, the entire strap cross-section is a stretch region126.

With reference to FIGS. 1, 5A and 5B, in some configurations, theheadgear 104 can include a so-called break-fit assembly 130, which canbe utilized to move the headgear 104 between a fitted or operatingcondition, in which the headgear 104 holds the mask 102 in contact withthe user's face, and a fitment or removal condition, in whichapplication or removal of the headgear 104 is facilitated. Preferably,the operating condition is a properly adjusted condition for anindividual user and the break-fit assembly 130 permits quick and easytransition between the operating condition and the fitment/removalcondition. That is, in contrast to designs that readjustment with eachapplication of the interface assembly 100, the break-fit assembly 130allows the headgear 104 to remain in a properly adjusted state, but beenlarged or opened to a certain extent to facilitate application orremoval. Preferably, adjustment features separate from the break-fitassembly 130 are provided to permit adjustment of the headgear 104 tofit an individual user. Break-fit assemblies could be provided in otherlocations of the headgear 104, such as any strap portion of the headgear104 or any of the other locations disclosed herein, such as inconnection with FIG. 89, for example and without limitation.

The break-fit assembly 130 can resist elongation/expansion under someconditions and permits elongation/expansion under other conditions. Forexample, the break-fit assembly 130 can be automatic, in whichelongation/expansion of the headgear 104 is resisted or prevented untila predetermined or desired yield force is exceeded, at which point theheadgear can elongate/expand. In some configurations, the break-fitassembly 130 can be manually operated to move the headgear 104 betweenthe operating condition and the fitment/removal condition.

The illustrated break-fit assembly 130 comprises a separation 132between a first flap 134 and a second flap 136 of material. Asillustrated in FIGS. 5A and 5B, the first flap 134 and the second flap136 can be joined or their respective edges brought close to one anotherto define a fitted or operating condition or the flaps 134, 136 can beseparated to define a fitment/removal condition. Optionally, a retentionmechanism, fastener or closure 138, such as a magnetic closure, can beutilized to secure the flaps 134, 136 in a fitted or operationcondition. In some configurations, the flaps 134, 136 can be connectedto one another by material extending between the edges defining theseparation 132, such as by a pleat. Other suitable arrangements tofacilitate fitment of the headgear 102 and/or interface assembly 100 canalso be used. For example, the break-fit assembly can include any ofthose described in U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/681,024,filed on Aug. 8, 2012, for example but without limitation, which ishereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

With reference to FIG. 6, another interface assembly 600 is arranged andconfigured in accordance with certain features, aspects and advantagesof the present disclosure. The illustrated interface assembly 600includes an interface 602 and a headgear 604. The illustrated interface602 is a nasal-oral mask but, as described herein, other types ofinterfaces can be used with the disclosed headgear 604. The illustratedmask 602 generally comprises a frame 606 that supports a seal 608. Themask 602 can be connected to a supply conduit (not shown), which can beused to supply breathing gases to a user. As described above, in someconfigurations, the mask 602 can seal around a mouth of a user and on anunderside of a nose of the user. Such a mask 602 can provide pressurizedair flow to both the nose and the mouth of the user. The headgear 604can be coupled to the mask 602 at one or more mounting locations ormounting points 610, as described below. Unless indicated otherwise,features of the interface assembly 600 or portions thereof can be thesame as or similar to other interfaces or portions thereof describedherein, or can be of another suitable arrangement.

In some configurations, the headgear 604 can comprise a generallynon-stretch/semi-rigid halo shaped portion 614 (referred to herein asthe “halo portion”). In some such configurations, the halo portion 614can generally encircle the parietal region of a user's head. In somesuch configurations, the headgear 604 can have a mounting portion in theform of rigid hook-shaped extensions or hook portions 612 that extendforward from the halo portion 614 on each side of the user's face.Preferably, the hook portions 612 sit over and in front of the user'sears and provide a mounting location for coupling the mask 602 to thehalo portion 614.

Preferably, the headgear 604 comprises two or more straps that couplethe mask 602 to the halo portion 614. In the illustrated configuration,a first or lower strap 618 and a second or upper strap 620 are providedon each side of the headgear 604 to connect the mask 602 to the haloportion 614 and permit rotational adjustment of the mask 602. Theillustrated straps 618, 620 indirectly couple the mask 602 to the haloportion 614. The straps 618, 620 are coupled directly to the hookportions 612, which transfer force from the straps 618, 620 to the haloportion 614. In some configurations, the one or more of the straps 618,620 can have an adjustable length or an adjustable effective length. Inthe illustrated arrangement, the actual length of each strap 618 and 620is fixed; however, the positioning of the straps 618, 620 on the hookportions 612 can be varied to adjust a length of each of the straps 618,620 that extends forward from the hook portions 612. The straps 618, 620can be secured to hook portions 612 and mask 602 by any suitablearrangement, such as cooperating hook-and-loop fastener portions 640. Asubstantial portion of the hook portions 612 can be covered by thehook-and-loop fastener portions 640 to provide a substantial amount oflength adjustment of the straps 618, 620. In some configurations, anentirety or substantial entirety of an inward-facing surface of thestraps 618, 620 can comprise hook-and-loop fastener portions 640.

In some configurations, the halo portion 614 is generally semi-rigid. Insome such configurations, the semi-rigid halo portion 614 can help theheadgear 604 remain open to facilitate the application or fitmentprocess. In some such configurations, the semi-rigid halo portion 614can reduce the likelihood of the headgear 604 (especially the haloportion 614) collapsing as a result of its own weight. In some suchconfigurations, the semi-rigid nature of the halo portion 614 makesfitting easy while not being so rigid that the halo portion 614 isuncomfortable to wear.

In some configurations, the hook portions 612 of the headgear 604 can bemore rigid than the halo portion 614. In some configurations, the hookportions 612 are rigid enough to reduce the likelihood of bending abovethe ear in response to normal or expected forces during use. Undesiredmovement of the mask 602 can result from substantial bending of the hookportions 612.

In some configurations, an initial extension 642 of the hook portions612 from the halo portion 614 may be substantially perpendicular. Insome configurations, the substantially perpendicular extension 642 canhelp apply a desired force angle to the mask 602. In some suchconfigurations, the desired force angle helps to seal the mask 602 alongthe bottom of the user's nose.

The upper strap 620 can be attached to the hook portions 612 at anangle. In some such configurations, the angle can be approximatelyperpendicular to the underside of the user's nose. The lower strap 618can be attached to the bottom of the mask 602. In some suchconfigurations, the lower strap 618 can reduce the likelihood of themask 602 lifting upwards away from the user's chin. In someconfigurations, one or more of the lower and upper straps 618, 620 canbe formed of or from a material such as Breath-o-prene®, for example butwithout limitation. The straps 618, 620 can be formed of or from amaterial that provides flexibility for easy adjustment and to minimizeexcessive force being applied to the user's face. Preferably, the straps618, 620 at least substantially limit extension along an axial directionof the straps 618, 620 in response to normal or expected forces in useto maintain the mask 602 in position on the user's face. As used herein,an “axial” direction can be a direction aligned with a geometric axis ofthe strap (or other component) in a lengthwise direction or a directionalong which the relevant force is applied. An axis of a strap or othercomponent can be non-linear (e.g., curved). In some instances, such asin connection with straps or components having a complex shape, an“axial” direction may not be aligned with a geometric axis, but may bedefined by end or connection points of the strap or may be generallyaligned with a resistance force provided by the strap or othercomponent.

With reference to FIGS. 7-9, another interface assembly 700 is arrangedand configured in accordance with certain features, aspects andadvantages of the present disclosure. The illustrated interface assembly700 is substantially similar to the interface assembly 600 in that theinterface assembly 700 includes a mask 702 and a headgear 704. Theillustrated mask 702 is a nasal-oral mask, but could be any other typeof interface. The headgear 704 includes a halo portion 714 and a pair ofhook portions 712 on each side of the headgear 704. A lower strap 718and an upper strap 720 connect the mask 702 to the hook portions 712 oneach side of the headgear 704. Unlike the interface assembly 600, thestraps 718, 720 of the interface assembly 700 preferably are adjustablein length by varying a portion of the strap 718, 720 that is doubledover on itself. In the illustrated arrangement, mounting points 710 ofthe mask 702 include a ring, bar or similar structure that permits thestrap 718, 720 to be connected to the mask 702 in a loop, with a freeend of the strap 718, 720 doubled back on itself and secured, such aswith a hook-and-loop fastener. In other respects, the interface assembly700 can be the same as or substantially similar to the interfaceassembly 600, including any of the features described with respectthereto, or can be of any other suitable arrangement.

With reference to FIGS. 10A-10E, several variations of interfaceassemblies 1000 are shown, each of which can be substantially similar tothe interface assemblies 600 and 700 and to one another. Accordingly,the same reference numbers are utilized throughout FIGS. 10A-10E for thesame or corresponding components or features. Each interface assembly1000 includes a mask 1002 and a headgear 1004. Each headgear 1004 alsoincludes at least a rear halo portion 1014 or a similar effectivearrangement. Preferably, each headgear 1004 also includes a front haloportion 1012 or similar effective arrangement. As described previously,the mask 1002 can cooperate with the headgear 1004 to form a portion ofthe front halo portion 1012. A lower strap 1018 and an upper strap 1020are provided on each side of the headgear 1004 to connect the mask 1002to the headgear 1004. Preferably, the upper strap 1020 applies a forceto the mask 1002 in a direction that facilitates or assists in sealingthe mask 1002 against a bottom surface of the user's nose and the lowerstrap 1018 facilitates or assists in rotational adjustment of the mask1002. A crown strap 1016, a rear strap 1050 and/or a rigid backbone1060, among other portions of the interface assemblies 1000, can beadjustable to fit an individual user. In some configurations, multiplesizes of headgear 1004 can be provided. The unique features andarrangements of the interface assemblies 1000 will now be described.

The interface assembly 1000 of FIG. 10A includes a relatively wide rearstrap portion 1050 that rests at least partially on the occipital boneand spreads the load over a larger area of the user's head as comparedto a thin strap. The lower strap 1018 passes below the user's ear andconnects to the rear portion 1050. The upper strap 1020 passes above theuser's ear and connects to a forward extension 1052 of the rear portion1050 at a junction with the crown strap 1016. The crown strap 1016 andrear portion 1050 cooperate to form a halo portion 1014. The entireheadgear 1004 can be constructed of a flexible material, such asBreath-o-prene®, for example.

The interface assembly of FIG. 10B includes a rigid backbone portion1060, which extends along the back of the user's head near the base ofthe skull and up and over the ears on each side. The rigid backbone 1060can be more rigid than other portions of the headgear 1004 and can beformed from a semi-rigid or rigid material. Preferably, the ends of therigid backbone 1060 extend forward of the user's ears. In the interfaceassembly 1000 of FIG. 10B, the ends of the rigid backbone 1060 extenddownwardly in front of the user's ears to form a shape similar to thehook portions 612 or 712. The upper strap 1020 and lower strap 1018 canextend between the mask 1002 and the ends of the rigid backbone 1060. Acrown strap 1016 can pass over the crown of the user's head and connectto each side of the rigid backbone 1060. The crown strap 1016 and rearportion of the rigid backbone 1060 cooperate to form a halo portion1014. Preferably, at least the end portions of the rigid backbone 1060are constructed from a relatively rigid material, similar to the hookportions 612 or 712, to resist bending. In some configurations, theentire rigid backbone 1060 can be constructed from a relatively rigidmaterial. The lower, upper and crown straps 1018, 1020 and 1016 can beconstructed from a softer, less rigid, more flexible or more stretchablematerial.

The interface assembly 1000 of FIG. 10C includes rigid ear loop portions1070 on each side, which extend in an arcuate manner behind the user'sear from below to above the ear. A halo portion 1014 can couple the earloop portions 1070 to one another. The upper straps 1020 extend fromrespective upper ends of the ear loop portions 1070 and the lower straps1018 extend from respective lower ends of the ear loop portions 1070.Preferably, at least the ear loop portions 1070 are constructed from arelatively rigid material. The other portions can be constructed from asofter, less rigid, more flexible or more stretchable material.

The interface assembly 1000 of FIG. 10D includes rigid ear loops 1070that completely encircle the user's ears. A crown strap 1016 passes overthe crown of the user's head and connects the ear loops 1070 and a rearstrap 1050 passes across the rear of the user's head and also connectsthe ear loops 1070. Each of the crown strap 1016 and the rear strap 1050extend in a generally radial direction from the ear loop 1070 and areoriented generally perpendicular to one another. The crown strap 1016,rear strap 1050 and portions of the ear loops 1070 between the crownstrap 1016 and the rear strap 1050 cooperate to define a halo portion1014. As described above, preferably, the crown strap 1016 and rearstrap 1050 are capable of adjustment such that the ear loops 1070 can beproperly positioned relative to the user's ears. Preferably, at leastthe ear loop portions 1070 are constructed from a relatively rigidmaterial. The other portions can be constructed from a softer, lessrigid, more flexible or more stretchable material.

The interface assembly 1000 of FIG. 10E includes a rigid backboneportion 1060 similar to the headgear 1004 of FIG. 10B; however, the endsof the rigid backbone 1060 in FIG. 10E do not extend downwardly in frontof the user's ear, or at least to any significant extent or as comparedto the rigid backbone 1060 of FIG. 10B. The lower straps 1018 extendfrom the rigid backbone 1060, below the user's ears, and connect to themask 1002. The upper straps 1020 extend from the ends of the rigidbackbone from a location above the user's ear and connect to the mask1002 at a location above the lower straps 1018. The upper straps 1020can be of a thin construction, such as a line or cable-typeconstruction, to minimize height and interference with vision, whileproviding suitable tensile properties. Preferably, at least the rigidbackbone 1060 is constructed from a relatively rigid material. The otherportions can be constructed from a softer, less rigid, more flexible ormore stretchable material. In other respects, the interface assemblies1000 can be the same as or substantially similar to the interfaceassemblies 600 or 700, including any of the features described withrespect thereto, or can be of any other suitable arrangement. Featuresof the various interface assemblies 600, 700, 1000 can be combined withone another as desired, such as to the extent that the features are notmutually exclusive.

FIGS. 11A-11C illustrate several variations of interface assemblies1000, each of which can be substantially similar to the interfaceassemblies 1000 of FIGS. 10A-10E. Accordingly, the same referencenumbers are utilized throughout FIGS. 11A-11C for the same orcorresponding components or features. The interface assembly 1000 ofFIG. 11A preferably is identical to the interface assembly 1000 of FIG.10A. The interface assemblies 1000 of FIGS. 11B and 11C are describedwith respect the differences relative to the interface assembly 1000 ofFIG. 11A. The interface assembly 1000 of FIG. 11B includes a relativelymore rigid or semi-rigid portion 1080 positioned within the rear portion1050. Preferably, the semi-rigid portion 1080 extends along a lower edgeof the rear portion 1050, such as along an entirety or at least asubstantial entirety of the rear portion 1050. The semi-rigid portion1080 can reduce pressure on the back of the user's neck and/or reduce orprevent slipping of the headgear 1004 on the user as a result of theincreased rigidity at least relative to the interface assembly 1000 ofFIG. 11A.

The interface assembly 1000 of FIG. 11C includes a relatively more rigidor semi-rigid connector 1090 that couples the upper strap 1020, thecrown strap 1016 and an upper portion of the rear strap or rear portion1050. The semi-rigid connector 1090 can reduce or prevent rotation ofthe crown strap 1016 by stabilizing or fixing the relative positions ofthe crown strap 1016, the upper strap 1020 and the upper portion of therear strap or rear portion 1050. In other respects, the interfaceassemblies 1000 can be the same as or substantially similar to theinterface assemblies 600 or 700, or the interfaces 1000 of FIGS.10A-10E, including any of the features described with respect thereto,or can be of any other suitable arrangement. Features of the variousinterface assemblies 600, 700, 1000 can be combined with one another asdesired, such as to the extent that the features are not mutuallyexclusive.

FIGS. 12A-12I illustrate several variations of interface assemblies1000, each of which can be substantially similar to the interfaceassemblies 1000 of FIGS. 10A-10E or 11A-11C. Accordingly, the samereference numbers are utilized throughout FIGS. 12A-12I for the same orcorresponding components or features. The interface assembly 1000 ofFIG. 12A preferably is substantially similar to the interface assembly1000 of FIG. 10E, except the illustrated upper straps 1020 are wider orhave a greater height dimension in the orientation as worn. The upperstraps 1020 of the interface assemblies 1000 of FIGS. 12B-12I can be ofa thin construction, such as a line or cable-type construction, similarto the interface assembly 1000 of FIG. 10E. The interface assemblies1000 of FIGS. 12B-12I are described with respect the differencesrelative to the interface assembly 1000 of FIG. 12A.

In the interface assembly 1000 of FIG. 12B, the rear section of therigid backbone 1060 sits lower on the user's head compared to theinterface assembly 1000 of FIG. 12A. Preferably, the rear portion of therigid backbone 1060 sits at or near a junction between the skull and theneck muscles of the user. In some configurations, the rear portion cansit on the neck muscles of the user. In addition, the lower straps 1018can be straight and arranged in a generally horizontal manner from therear portion of the rigid backbone 1060 to the mask 1002.

In the interface assembly 1000 of FIG. 12C, the rear portion of therigid backbone 1060 is higher than the interface assembly 1000 of FIG.12A and, preferably, sits on the occipital bone of the user. Such anarrangement reduces the likelihood of the headgear 1004 rotating on theuser's head. The rigid backbone 1060 can extend downwardly from the rearportion and partially around the ear of the user in a manner similar tothe ear loops 1070 of FIG. 10C. The crown strap 1016 and the rearportion of the rigid backbone 1060 can be oriented approximatelyperpendicular to one another.

In the interface assembly 1000 of FIG. 12D, the rigid backbone 1060includes ear portions similar to the ear loops 1070 of FIGS. 10C and12C. However, preferably, the rear portion of the rigid backbone 1060passes across the top of the head, such as across the parietal bone. Insome configurations, the rear portion of the rigid backbone 1060 passesacross an intermediate portion of the parietal bone and can bepositioned generally between the crown strap 1016 and the rear portionof the rigid backbone 1060 of the headgear 1004 of FIG. 12C.Accordingly, the crown strap 1016 can be omitted in the headgear 1004 ofFIG. 12D.

The interface assembly 1000 of FIG. 12E is similar to the interfaceassembly 1000 of FIG. 12D except that the rigid backbone 1060 includesfull ear loops similar to the ear loops 1070 of FIG. 10D. The lowerstraps 1018 can extend from a lower portion of the ear loops of therigid backbone 1060 to a lower portion of the mask 1002. In theillustrated arrangement, the lower straps 1018 extend from a positionabove a lowermost portion of the ear loop. However, in otherarrangements, the lower straps 1018 could extend from a lowermostportion of the ear loops and/or could be generally horizontal.

In the interface assembly 1000 of FIG. 12F, the lower strap 1018includes additional material at least in the rear portion to increasethe height of the strap 1018 and the overall height of the combinationof the strap 1018 and the rear portion of the rigid backbone 1060. Alower edge of the rear portion of the strap 1018 can be positioned at ornear a junction between the skull and the neck muscles of the user. Insome configurations, the lower edge can be on the neck muscles of theuser. In some configurations, the entire rear portion can be defined bythe rigid backbone 1060.

Relative to the interface assembly 1000 of FIG. 12F, the interfaceassembly 1000 of FIG. 12G includes relatively rigid extensions 1062provided on lateral sides of the rear portion of the rigid backbone1060. Preferably, the extensions 1062 extend downwardly and/or forwardlyfrom the rear portion of the rigid backbone 1060 and provide an anchorpoint or support for the lower straps 1018. Such an arrangement canguide the lower straps 1018 and, in some configurations, permit thelower straps 1018 to have a generally horizontal orientation.

In the interface assembly 1000 of FIG. 12H, the rigid backbone 1060 isshaped substantially similar to the rigid backbone 1060 of FIG. 12A.Preferably, the rear portion of the rigid backbone 1060 extends across alower portion of the bottom of the user's skull, such as across theoccipital bone and, in some configurations, above the user's neckmuscles. The lower straps 1018 preferably extend in a generallyhorizontal manner and can connect at a higher point on the mask 1002relative to the interface assembly 1000 of FIG. 12. In someconfigurations, the lower straps 1018 are still vertically-spaced fromthe upper straps 1020 at the mask 1002. The lower straps 1018 caninclude a downwardly-curved or U-shaped section that defines a cut-outor space to accommodate the user's ears.

In the interface assembly 1000 of FIG. 12I, the rigid backbone 1060defines a halo portion 1014 including a rear portion and a portionequivalent to the crown strap. The entire halo portion 1014 can beconstructed from a relatively rigid material, such as a semi-rigid orrigid material, or certain portions can be constructed from a relativelyrigid material (e.g., the hook portions) and other portions can beconstructed from a relatively less rigid material (e.g., the upper crownportion).

FIGS. 13-15 illustrate an interface assembly 1300 that is arranged andconfigured in accordance with certain features, aspects and advantagesof the present disclosure. The illustrated interface assembly 1300includes an interface 1302 and a headgear 1304. The illustratedinterface 1302 is a nasal-oral mask but, as described herein, othertypes of interfaces can be used with the disclosed headgear 1304. Theillustrated mask 1302 generally comprises a frame 1306 that supports aseal 1308. The mask 1302 can be connected to a supply conduit (notshown), which can be used to supply breathing gases to a user. Asdescribed above, in some configurations, the mask 1302 can seal around amouth of a user and on an underside of a nose of the user. Such a mask1302 can provide pressurized air flow to both the nose and the mouth ofthe user.

The headgear 1304 can be coupled to the mask 1302 at one or moremounting locations or mounting points 1310, as described below. Theheadgear 1304 can include a crown strap 1316 that extends across the topof the user's head. Preferably, a lower strap 1318 and an upper strap1320 are provided on each side of the headgear 1304 to connect the mask1302 to the rear halo portion 1314 or a rear portion of the headgear1304. Preferably, the headgear 1304 can also define a front halo portion1312. Unless indicated otherwise, features of the interface assembly1300 or portions thereof can be the same as or similar to otherinterfaces or portions thereof described herein, or can be of anothersuitable arrangement.

The headgear 1304 can incorporate one or more support portions orsupport members 1330 that can engage the head of the user to help securethe headgear 1304 in place, guide portions of the headgear 1304 in adesired path, or improve user comfort or user experience. In someconfigurations, the support members 1330 can contact an anatomicalfeature of the user's head. In the illustrated configuration, the upperstraps 1320 include cheek supports 1330 that contact the cheeks of theuser. In particular, the cheek supports 1330 can contact the cheeks ator near a location of the zygomatic and/or maxilla bones of the user.The cheek supports 1330 can be utilized to guide the upper straps 1320into a non-linear path. The cheek supports 1330 can allow the upperstraps 1320 to extend from the mask 1302 initially in a generallylateral direction and then upwardly to a connection point with the haloportion 1314 or a junction between the crown strap 1316 and a rear strapportion 1350 of the headgear 1304. The non-linear path can position theupper straps 1320 further from the user's eyes for improved visionand/or comfort.

In some configurations, the cheek supports 1330 can be relatively rigidand can anchor against the user's cheeks to reduce compression of theseal 1308 of the mask 1002 in response to tightening of the headgear1304. That is, the cheek supports 1330 inhibit the retention force ofthe headgear 1304 from being fully transferred to the seal 1308. Thecheek supports 1330 can be provided with a soft covering or skin-contactmaterial for comfort and/or to increase grip on the user's skin toassist with redirection of the upper straps 1320. In someconfigurations, the cheek supports 1330 can be a portion of the maskframe 1306. In some configurations, the cheek supports 1330 can be aseparate member that is coupled to the mask frame 1306. The cheeksupports 1330 can have an upwardly curved shape (in the illustratedorientation) to be positioned out of or further away from the user'sline of sight for a less intrusive experience when worn.

FIG. 16 illustrates an interface assembly 1600 that is arranged andconfigured in accordance with certain features, aspects and advantagesof the present disclosure. The illustrated interface assembly 1600includes an interface 1602 and a headgear 1604. The illustratedinterface 1602 is a nasal-oral mask but, as described herein, othertypes of interfaces can be used with the disclosed headgear 1604. Theillustrated mask 1602 generally comprises a frame 1606 that supports aseal 1608. The mask 1602 can be connected to a supply conduit 1609,which can be used to supply breathing gases to a user. As describedabove, in some configurations, the mask 1602 can seal around a mouth ofa user and on an underside of a nose of the user. Such a mask 1602 canprovide pressurized air flow to both the nose and the mouth of the user.

The headgear 1604 can be coupled to the mask 1602 at one or moremounting locations or mounting points 1610. Preferably, a lower strap1618 and an upper strap 1620 are provided on each side of the headgear1604 to connect the mask 1602 to a rear portion of the headgear 1604.Unless indicated otherwise, features of the interface assembly 1600 orportions thereof can be the same as or similar to other interfaces orportions thereof described herein, or can be of another suitablearrangement.

The illustrated headgear 1604 is of a pocket-like arrangement thatreceives and cups the back of the user's head. In the illustratedconfiguration, the headgear 1604 is of a skeleton or web-likeconfiguration that includes interior open spaces within the headgear1604. In some configurations, an outer perimeter 1614 of the headgear1604 generally defines a rear halo portion. Interior strap portions 1622extend between different points of the perimeter 1614 in generallyvertical and/or generally horizontal directions and can help maintainthe shape of the outer perimeter 1614. The upper strap 1620 and the rearportion of the headgear 1604 can cooperate to define a front haloportion 1612.

The headgear 1604 can include one or more relatively rigid portions1624, which can be more rigid than other portions of the headgear 1604and can be semi-rigid or rigid. The rigid portions 1624 can definemounting locations between the rear portion of the headgear 1604 and oneor both of the lower strap 1618 and the upper strap 1620. In someconfigurations, the rigid portions 1624 can be located behind each earof the user and can be curved to generally follow the shape of the ear.The rigid portions 1624 can provide anchor points for the lower strap1618 and upper strap 1620 below and above the ear, respectively. Therigid portions 1624 can transfer the load of the straps 1618, 1620 to alarger portion of the rear portion of the headgear 1604 and helpmaintain the shape of the outer perimeter 1614 of the headgear 1604 inresponse to forces applied by the straps 1618, 1620. The interior straps1614 and portions of the outer perimeter 1614 other than the rigidportions 1624 can be constructed from a flexible, less rigid material,such as a textile material, for example. Such an arrangement can provideeven load distribution over a significant area of the user's headwithout excessive heat retention.

The lower strap 1618 and upper strap 1620 can be constructed from anelastic material to have some amount of stretch. The stretch inherent inthe straps 1618, 1620 can be selected to provide an appropriate mountingforce for the mask 1602. However, the straps 1618, 1620 could, inaddition or in the alternative, be capable of length adjustment. In someconfigurations, a portion 1626 of the mask 1602 to which the straps1618, 1620 are coupled can be removable to loosen the straps andfacilitate fitment or removal of the interface assembly 1610. Forexample, the removable portion 1626 can have a snap-fit arrangement witha remainder of the mask 1602. The removable portion 1626 can beselectively disengaged from the remainder of the mask 1602. Theremovable portion 1626 can be completely separated from the remainder ofthe mask 1602 such that the interface assembly 1600 defines an open loopor the removable portion 1626 can remain tethered to the remainder ofthe mask 1602 to create an increased-circumference to facilitate fitmentor removal of the interface assembly 1600. A push button release 1628can be provided to facilitate disengagement of the removable portion1626. The removable portion 1626 can be coupled to the remainder of themask 1602 by any suitable coupling arrangement, including thosedisclosed herein, for example but without limitation. A removableportion 1626 can be provided on each side of the mask 1602, if desired.

FIG. 17 illustrates an interface assembly 1700 that is arranged andconfigured in accordance with certain features, aspects and advantagesof the present disclosure. The illustrated interface assembly 1700includes an interface 1702 and a headgear 1704. The illustratedinterface 1702 is a nasal-oral mask but, as described herein, othertypes of interfaces can be used with the disclosed headgear 1704. Theillustrated mask 1702 generally comprises a frame 1706 that supports aseal 1708. The mask 1702 can be connected to a supply conduit (notshown), which can be used to supply breathing gases to a user. Asdescribed above, in some configurations, the mask 1702 can seal around amouth of a user and on an underside of a nose of the user. Such a mask1702 can provide pressurized air flow to both the nose and the mouth ofthe user.

The headgear 1704 can be coupled to the mask 1702 at one or moremounting locations or mounting points 1710. Preferably, the mask 1702 iscapable of rotational adjustment relative to the headgear 1704 to permitangular adjustment of the mask 1702 to fit different facial geometries.Unlike the prior interfaces that rely on a pair of straps to permitangular adjustment of the mask, the interface assembly 1700 utilizesrelative rotational movement between the mask 1702 and the headgear1704, as described below. Unless indicated otherwise, features of theinterface assembly 1700 or portions thereof can be the same as orsimilar to other interfaces or portions thereof described herein, or canbe of another suitable arrangement.

The headgear 1704 can comprise a single side arm or side strap 1720 oneach side of the interface assembly 1700. The side strap 1720 can berelatively rigid such that it substantially retains its shape inresponse to normal or expected forces in use. The side strap 1720 canextend from the mask 1702 to a location above the user's ear. In someconfigurations, the side strap 1720 can be curved along its length. Theside strap 1720 can connect to the mask 1702 at a mounting point 1710that is located in a generally intermediate vertical position of themask 1702, as illustrated. However, in other configurations, themounting point 1710 can be located elsewhere, such as generally at apivot point of the mask 1702 at a junction between the underside of theuser's nose and the user's upper lip (see, for example, FIGS. 1 and 84).The side strap 1720 can curve upwardly in a direction from front to rearto be positioned at a desirable location on the user's face, which canbe away from the user's eyes. In some configurations, the side strap1720 can include padding that rests against the user's skin, such as acheek pad 1730 on an inside surface of the side strap 1720. In otherconfigurations, a greater portion or a substantial entirety of the sidestrap 1720 can be provided with padding. As described above, the mask1702 can be rotatable relative to the side strap 1720 and, preferably,can be secured in a desired rotational position.

The headgear 1704 can include a crown strap 1716. In someconfigurations, the crown strap 1716 can be integrated or formed as asingle piece with the side straps 1720. For example, the crown strap1716 can be constructed from a less rigid material, such as a semi-rigidmaterial, and can be removably or permanently coupled to the side straps1720. The crown strap 1716 can be a member that is overmolded onto theside straps 1720. Each side strap 1720 can include an extension ormounting portion 1724 that provides a mechanical interface for theovermolded crown strap 1716. In some configurations, the crown strap1716 can be formed from a thermoplastic elastomer or silicone material,for example.

The headgear 1704 can also include a rear strap 1750 that extends alongthe back of the user's head between rear portions of the side straps1720. The rear strap 1750 can be relatively less rigid than the sidestraps 1720. In some configurations, the rear strap 1750 is a flexibleand/or somewhat stretchable material, such as a textile material. Therear strap 1750 can have one or more adjustment portions 1752, such asan adjustment portion 1752 on each end of the rear strap 1750. Theadjustment portion 1752 can be an adjustable loop that is passed throughan opening or slot 1754 of the side strap 1720. The loop can be securedto the rear strap 1750 by a suitable connector 1756, such as ahook-and-loop fastener, for example. In some configurations, one or moreadditional adjustment points can be provided, such as an adjustmentfeature 1722 within the crown strap 1716, which permits a length of thecrown strap 1716 to be adjusted. In the illustrated configurations,three adjustment points are provided, thereby permitting adjustment of acircumference of a front halo portion 1712 (via the adjustment feature1722) and a circumference of a rear halo portion 1714 (via theadjustment feature 1722 and the adjustment portions 1752).

FIG. 18 illustrates an interface assembly 1700 preferably that issubstantially similar to the interface assembly 1700 of FIG. 17.Accordingly, the same reference numbers are utilized for the same orcorresponding components or features. The interface assembly 1700 ofFIG. 18 is described with respect the differences relative to theinterface assembly 1700 of FIG. 17. Unless indicated otherwise, featuresof the interface assembly 1700 or portions thereof can be the same as orsimilar to other interfaces or portions thereof of the interfaceassembly 1700 of FIG. 17, other interface assemblies described herein,or can be of another suitable arrangement.

The side strap 1720 of the interface assembly 1700 of FIG. 18 can have arearward end positioned at or near a forward, upper portion of theuser's ear. The side strap 1720 and the rear strap 1750 can connect to abase of the crown strap 1716, which can be a separate component from theside strap 120 and/or rear strap 1750. The rearward end of the sidestrap 1720 can include a hook 1760 that engages a loop 1762 of the crownstrap 1716. The loop 1762 can be a portion of the crown strap 1716material that is folded over onto itself and sewn in place. Othersuitable arrangements can also be used, such as a ring member coupled tothe crown strap 1716, for example. The adjustment portion 1752 of therear strap 1750 can be a sliding buckle adjuster, for example.

FIG. 19 illustrates a rotational adjustment arrangement or rotationaladjuster 1900 that can provide rotational adjustment between twocomponents of an interface assembly, such as between the mask and theheadgear. The rotational adjuster 1900 can be utilized in the interfaceassemblies 1700 of FIGS. 17 and 18, for example, as well as otherinterface assemblies, including those disclosed herein. For convenience,the rotational adjuster 1900 is described in the context of theinterface assemblies 1700.

Preferably, the rotational adjuster 1900 includes a first portion 1902that is capable of engagement with a second portion 1904 in a pluralityof rotational positions in order to adjust the fit to different facialgeometries. In the illustrated arrangement, the first portion 1902 is amale portion and the second portion 1904 is a female portion. The firstportion 1902 is formed by, carried by or otherwise coupled to theheadgear 1704 (e.g., the side strap 1720) and the second portion 1904 isformed by, carried by or otherwise coupled to the mask 1702. However,this arrangement could be reversed. The illustrated first portion 1902is an axle and the illustrated second portion 1904 is a sleeve or hub.The axle 1902 is received within the sleeve 1904 in one of a pluralityof optional rotational positions. The axle 1902 and the sleeve 1904 cancomprise cooperating interference or detent surfaces 1906, which permitrotational adjustment between a plurality of relative rotationalpositions. The detent surfaces 1906 can be of any suitable arrangement,such as protrusions and recesses, for example.

In some configurations, the axle 1902 comprises two or more flexible ordeflectable tabs 1908 to permit the axle 1902 to be assembled intoengagement with the sleeve 1904. Preferably, the tabs 1908 are stiffenough to inhibit undesired rotational movement of the mask 1702 inresponse to normal or expected forces in use. A rim or flange 1910 canbe provided at a free end of the axle 1902 to secure the axle 1902within the sleeve 1904 in an axial direction. However, other rotationaladjustment arrangements can be used with the interface assembly 1700 orany other interface assembly disclosed herein. Any suitable arrangementfor providing rotational adjustment between two components can be used.In some configurations, the rotational adjustment arrangement can befixed in the desired rotational position instead of relying on anotherfixing component, such as another mask strap, for example. For example,a nut-and-bolt arrangement, ratchet-type arrangement or other types ofdetent arrangements could be used, among other suitable arrangements.

FIG. 20 illustrates an interface assembly 2000 that is arranged andconfigured in accordance with certain features, aspects and advantagesof the present disclosure. The illustrated interface assembly 2000includes an interface 2002 and a headgear 2004. The illustratedinterface 2002 is a nasal-oral mask but, as described herein, othertypes of interfaces can be used with the disclosed headgear 2004. Theillustrated mask 2002 generally comprises a frame 2006 that supports aseal 2008. The mask 2002 can be connected to a supply conduit (notshown), which can be used to supply breathing gases to a user. Asdescribed above, in some configurations, the mask 2002 can seal around amouth of a user and on an underside of a nose of the user. Such a mask2002 can provide pressurized air flow to both the nose and the mouth ofthe user.

The headgear 2004 can be coupled to the mask 2002 at one or moremounting locations or mounting points 2010. Preferably, a lower strap2018 and an upper strap 2020 are provided on each side of the headgear2004 to connect the mask 2002 to a rear portion of the headgear 2004.Unless indicated otherwise, features of the interface assembly 2000 orportions thereof can be the same as or similar to other interfaces orportions thereof described herein, or can be of another suitablearrangement.

In the illustrated arrangement, forward ends of the lower strap 2018 andthe upper strap 2020 can join one another and be coupled to the mask2002 at a single mounting location or mounting point 2010 on each sideof the mask 2002. The rear strap portion 2050 can have bifurcated endportions, each having an upper end portion 2052 and a lower end portion2054. The upper end portion 2052 can connect to the upper strap 2020and, in some configurations, with a crown strap 2016. The lower endportion 2054 can connect to the lower strap 2018. In someconfigurations, the lower strap 2018, upper strap 2020, crown strap 2016and rear strap portion 2050 can be constructed as a single piece orsingle structure of any suitable material, such as a relatively flexiblematerial. The crown strap 2016 can include an adjustment feature 2022 topermit adjustment of a front halo portion 2012 and a rear halo portion2014 and/or other adjustment mechanisms for the headgear 2004 can beprovided.

An adjustment strap 2060 can be provided on each side of the interfaceassembly 2000 to couple the mask 2002 to a main portion of the headgear2004. The adjustment strap 2060 can engage a buckle 2062, which can beconnected to the main portion of the headgear 2004 (e.g., the combinedforward ends of the straps 2018, 2020) by any suitable arrangement,including a loop 2064 of material, for example. The adjustment strap2060 can be movable within the buckle to adjust an effective length ofthe strap 2060 and thereby adjust a position of the mask 2002 relativeto the headgear 2004. To tighten the strap 2060, a user can pull on afree end 2066 of the strap 2060. Such an arrangement can be quieter toadjust and/or easier to fine tune the adjustment compared to ahook-and-loop fastener adjustment, for example.

The mask 2002 can include an elongate slot 2070 near an edge of the maskframe 2006 such that the mask frame 2006 defines an elongate bar 2072.The strap 2060 can be secured to the bar 2062 to couple the strap 2060to the mask 2002. In some configurations, the slot 2070 and/or bar 2072define a length (or height in the illustrated orientation) that isgreater than a width (or height in the illustrated orientation) of thestrap 2060 such that the strap 2060 is movable within the slot 2070 oralong the bar 2072. Preferably, the slot 2070 and/or bar 2072 arearcuate or curved in shape such that moving the mask 2002 relative tothe strap 2060 changes an angle or rotational position of the mask 2002relative to the headgear 2004 and the user. In use, the user canposition the mask 2002 and headgear 2004 and then tighten the strap(s)2060 to secure the mask 2002 in place. The strap(s) 2060 canautomatically settle into a desired location within the slot 2070 oralong the bar 2072. The user could also manually adjust an angle orrotational position of the mask 2002 relative to the strap(s) 2060and/or headgear 2004 after the interface assembly 2000 has been fitted.

FIG. 21 illustrates an interface assembly 2100 that is arranged andconfigured in accordance with certain features, aspects and advantagesof the present disclosure. The illustrated interface assembly 2100includes an interface 2102 and a headgear 2104. The illustratedinterface 2102 is a nasal-oral mask but, as described herein, othertypes of interfaces can be used with the disclosed headgear 2104. Theillustrated mask 2102 generally comprises a frame 2106 that supports aseal 2108. The mask 2102 can be connected to a supply conduit (notshown), which can be used to supply breathing gases to a user. Asdescribed above, in some configurations, the mask 2102 can seal around amouth of a user and on an underside of a nose of the user. Such a mask2102 can provide pressurized air flow to both the nose and the mouth ofthe user.

The headgear 2104 can be coupled to the mask 2102 at one or moremounting locations or mounting points 2110. Preferably, a lower strap2118 and an upper strap 2120 are provided on each side of the headgear2104 to connect the mask 2102 to a rear portion of the headgear 2104.Unless indicated otherwise, features of the interface assembly 2100 orportions thereof can be the same as or similar to other interfaces orportions thereof described herein, or can be of another suitablearrangement.

In the illustrated arrangement, the mask 2102 includes an elongate,rearwardly-extending rigid arm 2160 on each side of the mask 2102 thatis coupled to a respective one of the upper straps 2120 of the headgear2104. In some configurations, the rigid arm 2160 can be a portion of themask frame 2106. In some configurations, the rigid arm 2160 can be aseparate member that is coupled to the mask frame 2006. The rigid arm2160 can have an upwardly curved shape (in the illustrated orientation)to be positioned out of or further away from the user's line of sightfor a less intrusive experience when worn. In some configurations, therigid arm 2160 can include padding, such as a cheek pad 2130 thatcontacts the skin of the user for comfort and/or grip on the skin.

The rigid arm 2160 can be coupled to the upper strap 2120 by anysuitable arrangement. In some configurations, the rigid arm 2160includes an opening 2162 through which the upper strap 2120 can bepassed and doubled over on itself to form a loop. The loop of the upperstrap 2120 can be secured by a connector 2156, such as a hook-and-loopfastener, for example. In some configurations, the opening 2162 of therigid arm 2160 is defined by a hook 2164, which defines an entry intothe opening 2162 to facilitate quick separation of the upper strap 2120from the rigid arm 2160.

The lower strap 2118 can be coupled to the mask 2102 by any suitablearrangement, such as passed through an opening 2170 in the mask 2102 anddoubled over on itself to form a loop. The loop of the lower strap 2118can be secured by a connector 2172, such as a hook-and-loop fastener,for example. As in other interface assemblies described herein, theupper strap 2120 and lower strap 2118 can be adjusted to place the mask2102 in a desirable rotational position. In some configurations, thecrown strap 2116 can include an adjustment feature 2122. Other suitablearrangements can also be used to permit adjustment of the headgear 2104(e.g., the front halo portion 2112 and/or rear halo portion 2114),including one or more of the lower strap 2118, upper strap 2120 andcrown strap 2116, for example and without limitation.

FIGS. 22A and 22B illustrate interface assemblies 2200 that are arrangedand configured in accordance with certain features, aspects andadvantages of the present disclosure. The illustrated interfaceassemblies 2200 include an interface 2202 and a headgear 2204. Theillustrated interface 2202 is a nasal-oral mask but, as describedherein, other types of interfaces can be used with the disclosedheadgear 2204. The illustrated mask 2202 generally comprises a frame2206 that supports a seal 2208. The mask 2202 can be connected to asupply conduit (not shown), which can be used to supply breathing gasesto a user. As described above, in some configurations, the mask 2202 canseal around a mouth of a user and on an underside of a nose of the user.Such a mask 2202 can provide pressurized air flow to both the nose andthe mouth of the user. The frame 2206 can comprise rigid,upwardly-extending paddle portions 2206 a positioned on each side of thenose portion of the seal 2208 to resist expansion of the nose portion ofthe seal 2208 in response to pressurized air within the mask 2202.

The headgear 2204 can be coupled to the mask 2202 at one or moremounting locations or mounting points 2210. Preferably, a lower strap2218 and an upper strap 2220 are provided on each side of the headgear2204 to connect the mask 2202 to a rear portion of the headgear 2204.Unless indicated otherwise, features of the interface assemblies 2200 orportions thereof can be the same as or similar to other interfaces orportions thereof described herein, or can be of another suitablearrangement. In particular, the interface assemblies 2200 are similar tothe interface assembly 2100 of FIG. 21 and, for the sake of convenience,will be described in the context of the differences relative to thatinterface assembly 2100.

In the illustrated arrangement of FIG. 22A, the upper strap 2220 iscoupled to the mask 2202 at a mounting point 2210 that is located at ornear the seal 2208 of the mask 2202. In particular, the mounting point2210 of the upper strap 2220 preferably is located between a forwardedge and a rearward edge of the seal 2208 when viewed from the side. Insome configurations, the mounting point 2210 is located at or near theupper end of the seal 2208 and/or at or near the user's nose. Such anarrangement can provide a suitable force vector to facilitate thecreation of a seal between the mask seal 2208 and the underside of theuser's nose. The upper strap 2220 can be coupled to the mask 2202 by anysuitable arrangement, such as passed through an opening 2262 in the mask2202 and doubled over on itself to form a loop. The loop of the upperstrap 2220 can be secured by a connector 2256, such as a hook-and-loopfastener, for example.

The lower strap 2218 can be coupled to the mask 2202 at a mounting point2210 that is located toward a bottom portion of the seal 2208, such asat or near the user's mount or chin. In a fore-aft direction, themounting point 2210 can be generally aligned with the mounting point2210 of the upper strap 2220. The lower strap 2218 can be coupled to themask 2202 by any suitable arrangement, such as passed through an opening2270 in the mask 2202 and doubled over on itself to form a loop. Theloop of the lower strap 2218 can be secured by a connector 2272, such asa hook-and-loop fastener, for example.

As in other interface assemblies described herein, the upper strap 2220and lower strap 2218 can be adjusted to place the mask 2202 in adesirable rotational position. The substantial vertical separationbetween the mounting points 2210 of the upper strap 2220 and the lowerstrap 2218 permits fine control of the angular adjustment of the mask2202.

In some configurations, a crown strap 2216 of the headgear 2204 caninclude an adjustment feature 2222. Other suitable arrangements can alsobe used to permit adjustment of the headgear 2204 (e.g., the front haloportion 2212 and/or rear halo portion 2214), including one or more ofthe lower strap 2218, upper strap 2220 and crown strap 2216, for exampleand without limitation.

The interface assembly 2200 of FIG. 22B provides quick-release couplings2280 between the mask 2202 and the headgear 2204. In particular, eachstrap 2218, 2220 is coupled to the mask by a clip 2282, which preferablyincludes a hook-shaped end portion or other suitable arrangement toengage the respective openings 2262, 2270 of the mask 2202. The straps2218, 2220 can be adjusted relative to the clips 2282. In addition, theheadgear 2204 includes separate upper and lower portions. The upperstrap 2220 is coupled to the upper portion of the headgear 2204, whichpreferably includes the crown strap 2216 and a first or upper rear headstrap 2290. The upper strap 2220, the crown strap 2216 and the upperrear head strap 2290 cooperate to form the front halo portion 2212 andthe rear halo portion 2214. The upper rear head strap 2290 can extendaround the back of the user's head at, near or above a level of an upperportion of the user's ears, such as on or near a transition between theparietal bone and the occipital bone. The lower strap 2218 is coupled toa second or lower rear head strap 2292, which can extend around the backof the user's head at, near or blow a level of a lower portion of theuser's ears. In some configurations, the lower rear head strap 2292 sitson the user's occipital bone and/or on the user's upper neck muscles. Arear portion of the lower rear head strap 2292 can be enlarged in avertical direction to spread the load on the user's neck and/or headarea. The provision of separate straps 2290, 2292 can facilitate fittingand removal.

FIGS. 23 and 24 illustrate an interface assembly 2300 that is arrangedand configured in accordance with certain features, aspects andadvantages of the present disclosure. The illustrated interface assembly2300 includes an interface 2302 and a headgear 2304. The illustratedinterface 2302 is a nasal-oral mask but, as described herein, othertypes of interfaces can be used with the disclosed headgear 2304. Theillustrated mask 2302 generally comprises a frame 2306 that supports aseal 2308. The mask 2302 can be connected to a supply conduit (notshown), which can be used to supply breathing gases to a user. Asdescribed above, in some configurations, the mask 2302 can seal around amouth of a user and on an underside of a nose of the user. Such a mask2302 can provide pressurized air flow to both the nose and the mouth ofthe user.

The headgear 2304 can be coupled to the mask 2302 at one or moremounting locations or mounting points 2310. Preferably, a strap 2315including a lower strap portion 2318 and an upper strap portion 2320 isprovided on one or both sides of the headgear 2304 to connect the mask2302 to a rear portion of the headgear 2304. In some configurations, thestrap 2315 can be substantially non-stretchable. The strap 2315 can beconstructed from a thin textile webbing. Unless indicated otherwise,features of the interface assembly 2300 or portions thereof can be thesame as or similar to other interfaces or portions thereof describedherein, or can be of another suitable arrangement.

In the illustrated configuration, each strap 2315 on each side of theinterface assembly 2300 is a single strap comprising an upper strapportion 2320 and a lower strap portion 2318. One or both of the upperstrap portion 2320 and the lower strap portion 2318 can be adjustablysecured to the headgear 2304. In the illustrated arrangement, the upperstrap portion 2320 is fixedly secured to the headgear 2304 and the lowerstrap portion 2318 is adjustably secured to the headgear 2304. However,this arrangement could be reversed. The lower strap portion 2318 can becoupled to the headgear 2304 by a suitable adjustment mechanism, such asa buckle 2340, for example and without limitation.

The strap 2315 can include an intermediate strap portion 2350 thatengages the mask 2302 at the mounting points 2310. The mask 2302 caninclude a pair of spaced-apart mounting points 2310 on the same side ofthe mask 2302. In some configurations, the mounting points 2310 comprisean upper mounting point and a lower mounting point. One of the upper andlower mounting points 2310 can permit the intermediate strap portion2350 to be conveniently disengaged from the mounting point 2310 toprovide slack in the strap 2315, which can facilitate fitment or removalof the interface assembly 2300. If such straps 2315 are provided on eachside of the interface assembly 2300, the amount of slack provided can bedoubled.

In the illustrated arrangement, the mask 2302 comprises a retentionstructure 2360, such as a cleat or a block, around which theintermediate strap portion 2350 can be passed and retained and whichdefines a mounting point 2310. However, other suitable structures orarrangements could also be used. Preferably, the mask 2302 alsocomprises a guide 2362 for the intermediate strap portion 2350 thatdefines another mounting point 2310. The guide 2362 can be an opening orslot that preferably frictionally engages the intermediate strap portion2350 to inhibit or prevent movement in response to normal or expectedforces on the strap 2315 during use to retain the mask 2302 in a desiredorientation (e.g., angular orientation) relative to the headgear 2304.However, preferably, the guide 2362 allows movement of the strap 2315when desired to permit adjustment of the mask 2302 relative to theheadgear 2304. In the illustrated arrangement, the guide 2362 defines anupper mounting point 2310 and the retention structure 2360 defines alower mounting point 2310. However, this arrangement could be reversedor the mounting points 2310 could be otherwise spaced.

The headgear 2304 preferably comprises a front halo portion 2312 and arear halo portion 2314. The headgear 2304 preferably also comprises arear strap portion 2370 that is coupled to the rear halo portion 2314.Adjustment of the rear halo portion 2314 can be provided by, forexample, an adjustment feature 2322. The lower strap portion 2318 can becoupled to the rear strap portion 2370 and the upper strap portion 2320can be coupled to the rear strap portion 2370 such that the upper strapportion 2320 is passes above an ear of the user and the lower strapportion 2318 passes below the ear of the user.

In use, the intermediate strap portion 2350 can be disengaged from theretention structure 2360 to introduce slack into the strap 2315 asillustrated by the dashed lines of FIG. 24. The interface assembly 2300can be fitted to the user with the mask 2302 placed over the user'smouth and against the underside of the user's nose. The headgear 2304can be placed on the back of the user's head. Then, the intermediatestrap portion 2350 can be engaged with the retention structure 2360 totake up the slack in the strap 2315. If necessary or desired, therotational position of the mask 2302 relative to the headgear 2304 canbe adjusted by moving the intermediate strap portion 2350 through theguide 2362. Preferably, the guide 2362 then holds the intermediate strapportion 2350 in place to maintain the desired rotational position of themask 2302. In some cases, such as if the interface assembly 2300 hasbeen previously fitted, the rotational position of the mask 2302 mayalready be set. To remove the interface assembly 2300, the process isreversed and the intermediate strap portion 2350 is disengaged from theretention structure 2360 to provide slack in the strap 2315. Asdiscussed, such a strap 2315 can be provided on one or both sides of theinterface assembly 2300. Even if two such straps 2315 are provided,disengagement of one strap 2315 may provide sufficient slack to permitremoval of the interface assembly 2300.

FIG. 25 illustrates an interface assembly 2500 that is arranged andconfigured in accordance with certain features, aspects and advantagesof the present disclosure. The illustrated interface assembly 2500includes an interface 2502 and a headgear 2504. The illustratedinterface 2502 is a nasal-oral mask but, as described herein, othertypes of interfaces can be used with the disclosed headgear 2504. Theillustrated mask 2502 generally comprises a frame 2506 that supports aseal 2508. The mask 2502 can be connected to a supply conduit (notshown), which can be used to supply breathing gases to a user. Asdescribed above, in some configurations, the mask 2502 can seal around amouth of a user and on an underside of a nose of the user. Such a mask2502 can provide pressurized air flow to both the nose and the mouth ofthe user.

The headgear 2504 can be coupled to the mask 2502 at one or moremounting locations or mounting points 2510. Preferably, a strap 2515that includes a lower strap portion 2518 and an upper strap portion 2520is provided on each side of the headgear 2504 to connect the mask 2502to a rear portion of the headgear 2504. Unless indicated otherwise,features of the interface assembly 2500 or portions thereof can be thesame as or similar to other interfaces or portions thereof describedherein, or can be of another suitable arrangement. In particular, theinterface assembly 2500 is similar to the interface assembly 2300 ofFIGS. 23 and 24 and, for the sake of convenience, will be described inthe context of the differences relative to that interface assembly 2300.

The headgear 2504 preferably comprises a front halo portion 2512, a rearhalo portion 2514 and a rear strap portion 2570 that is coupled to therear halo portion 2314. Adjustment of the rear halo portion 2514 can beprovided by, for example, an adjustment feature 2522. The upper strapportion 2320 can be coupled to rear halo portion 2514 of the headgear2504.

An intermediate strap portion 2550 of the strap 2515 extends from afriction guide 2562 of the mask 2502 to the rear strap portion 2570 ofthe headgear 2504. Preferably, a low friction guide or ring 2540 iscoupled to the rear strap portion 2570 of the headgear 2504. The strap2515 passes through an opening of the low friction guide 2540 and alower strap portion 2518 of the strap 2515 extends toward a lower end ofthe mask 2502. Preferably, the lower strap portion 2518 is connected tothe mask 2502 by a clip 2360. The clip 2360 can releasably engage themask 2502, such as with a hook and bar arrangement, for example. Theclip 2360 can include a buckle portion 2564 through which the lowerstrap portion 2518 can be passed. The lower strap portion 2518 can beadjusted relative to the buckle portion 2564 to permit an effectivelength of the lower strap portion 2518 to be adjusted.

Similar to the interface assembly 2300, the strap 2515 can be adjustedrelative to the friction guide 2562 to adjust an effective length of theupper strap portion 2520. The lower strap portion 2518 can be adjustedrelative to the clip 2360 to adjust an angular or rotational position ofthe mask 2502. Adjustment of the lower strap portion 2518 can alsoadjust the tension of the strap 2515 when the interface assembly 2500 isfitted to a user.

To fit or remove the interface assembly 2500, the clip 2560 can bedisengaged from the mask 2502, which can free the lower portion of themask 2502. With the clip 2360 disengaged, the low friction guide 2540also permits an effective length of the intermediate strap portion 2550to be increased to thereby increase a distance between the rear strapportion 2570 and the mask 2502, which may permit the interface assembly2500 to be fitted or removed from the user. In necessary or desired, thestrap 2515 can also be adjusted relative to the friction guide 2562 toincrease an effective length of the upper strap portion 2520 tofacilitate fitment of removal of the interface assembly 2500.

FIGS. 26-28 illustrate an interface assembly 2600 that is arranged andconfigured in accordance with certain features, aspects and advantagesof the present disclosure. The illustrated interface assembly 2600includes an interface 2602 and a headgear 2604. The illustratedinterface 2602 is a nasal-oral mask but, as described herein, othertypes of interfaces can be used with the disclosed headgear 2604. Theillustrated mask 2602 generally comprises a frame 2606 that supports aseal 2608. The mask 2602 can be connected to a supply conduit 2609,which can be used to supply breathing gases to a user. As describedabove, in some configurations, the mask 2602 can seal around a mouth ofa user and on an underside of a nose of the user. Such a mask 2602 canprovide pressurized air flow to both the nose and the mouth of the user.The headgear 2604 can be coupled to the mask 2602 at one or moremounting locations or mounting points 2610. Unless indicated otherwise,features of the interface assembly 2600 or portions thereof can be thesame as or similar to other interfaces or portions thereof describedherein, or can be of another suitable arrangement.

In the illustrated arrangement, a lower strap 2618 and an upper arm 2620are provided on each side of the headgear 2604 to connect the mask 2602to a rear portion of the headgear 2604. Preferably, similar to theinterface assembly 600 of FIG. 6, the headgear 2604 of the interfaceassembly 2600 includes a hook portion 2615 extending downwardly in frontof the user's ear that supports the lower strap 2618. The upper arm 2620and the hook portion 2615 can be an integral or single-piececonstruction. In some configurations, a gusset 2630 or other supportstructure can be provided between the upper arm 2620 and the hookportion 2615.

The headgear 2604 can also include a crown strap 2616 portion and a rearstrap 2650 portion. The upper arm 2620 and crown strap 2616 cancooperate to form a front halo portion 2612 and the rear strap 2650 cancooperate to form a rear halo portion 2614. Some or all of the upper arm2620, hook portion 2615, crown strap 2616 and rear strap 2650 portionsof the headgear 2604 can be an integrated or single-piece construction.In some configurations, some or all of the upper arm 2620, hook portion2615, crown strap 2616 and rear strap 2650 portions of the headgear 2604can comprise a relatively rigid frame 2640 that can be partially orcompletely covered by a softer and/or less rigid material exterior orcover 2642. Any materials suitable for the rigid frame 2640 and softcover 2642 can be used. For example and without limitation, the rigidframe 2640 can be constructed from polycarbonate, nylon, ABS,polypropylene or other materials having similar mechanical properties,especially with respect to rigidity. The soft cover 2642, for exampleand without limitation, can be constructed from silicone, thermoplasticelastomer, thermoplastic polyurethane, other materials with similarmechanical properties, cloth-type materials (cloth covered foam),rubber/foam materials or other suitable soft materials. In someconfigurations, an adjustment mechanism, stretchable component or lessrigid portion can be provided within the crown strap 2616 and/or rearstrap 2650 to facilitate size adjustment or fitting. Thus, the headgear2604 could be constructed from multiple sections or portions (e.g., twohalves), each of which could comprise an integrated or single-piececonstruction of some or all of the upper arm 2620, hook portion 2615,crown strap 2616 or rear strap 2650.

Preferably, a coupler 2644 allows for rotational or pivotal movement ofthe mask 2602 relative to the upper arm 2620. Any suitable arrangementof the coupler 2644 to achieve rotational or pivotal movement of themask 2602 can be used. For example, the mask 2602 can be coupled to theupper arm 2620 by a flexible shaft or cable or by a pivotal joint. Inaddition, preferably, the lower strap 2618 is capable of lengthadjustment, such as by any of the adjustment arrangements disclosedherein or any other suitable arrangement. Accordingly, rotationaladjustment and fixation of the mask 2602 can be achieved. The coupler2644 can allow the mask to freely rotate with fixation provided by thelower strap 2618. In other configurations, other rotational adjustmentarrangements could be used that allow adjustment and fixation of themask 2602, such as the arrangement disclosed in connection with FIG. 19,for example and without limitation.

In some configurations, one or more portions of the headgear 2604 cancomprise a padded portion 2646. For example, a junction between theupper arm 2620/hook portion 2615, the crown strap 2616 and the rearstrap 2650, which can be located generally above the user's ear, cancomprise a padded portion 2646. Any suitable type of padding can beused. For example, with reference to FIG. 27, a padding material 2648,such as a gel or other highly compressible material can be utilized,such as between the rigid frame 2640 and soft cover 2642. A bottomsurface of the section of the headgear 2604 in FIG. 27 represents asurface that would contact the user's head.

FIGS. 28A-28C illustrate possible constructions for other (e.g.,non-padded) portions of the headgear 2604. For example, portions of someor all of the upper arm 2620, hook portion 2615, crown strap 2616 orrear strap 2650 could be constructed in a manner similar to any of thearrangements of FIGS. 28A-28C. A bottom surface of the section of theheadgear 2604 in FIGS. 28A-28C represents a surface that would contactthe user's head. The arrangement of FIG. 28A comprises a variablethickness cover 2642. For example, the thickness is greater in a centerportion of the cross-section compared to the edge portions, whichresults in a non-linear surface adjacent the user's head and/or facingaway from the user's head. FIG. 28B illustrates an arrangement withconsistent thickness of the cover 2642 and the overall cross-section ofthe portion of the headgear 2604. FIG. 28C illustrates a version inwhich the cover 2642 does not cover an entirety of the rigid frame 2640.For example, a center portion of the rigid frame 2640 is left exposedand the cover 2642 is provided on each edge portion of the rigid frame2640. Any suitable manner of coupling the cover 2642 and/or padding 2648to the rigid frame 2640 can be utilized, such as overmolding, forexample. Arrangements to provide mechanical interlocking of the rigidframe 2640 and the cover 2642 and/or padding 2648 can be utilized forincreased durability.

FIG. 29 illustrates an interface assembly 2900 that is arranged andconfigured in accordance with certain features, aspects and advantagesof the present disclosure. The illustrated interface assembly 2900includes an interface 2902 and a headgear 2904. The illustratedinterface 2902 is a nasal-oral mask but, as described herein, othertypes of interfaces can be used with the disclosed headgear 2904. Theillustrated mask 2902 generally comprises a frame 2906 that supports aseal 2908. The mask 2902 can be connected to a supply conduit 2909,which can be used to supply breathing gases to a user. As describedabove, in some configurations, the mask 2902 can seal around a mouth ofa user and on an underside of a nose of the user. Such a mask 2902 canprovide pressurized air flow to both the nose and the mouth of the user.

The headgear 2904 can be coupled to the mask 2902 at one or moremounting locations or mounting points 2910. Preferably, a lower strapportion 2918 and an upper arm 2920 are provided on each side of theheadgear 2904 to connect the mask 2902 to a rear portion of the headgear2904. Unless indicated otherwise, features of the interface assembly2900 or portions thereof can be the same as or similar to otherinterfaces or portions thereof described herein, or can be of anothersuitable arrangement. In particular, the interface assembly 2900 issimilar to the interface assembly 2600 of FIGS. 26-28 and, for the sakeof convenience, will be described in the context of the differencesrelative to that interface assembly 2600.

The headgear 2904 utilizes a rear strap 2950 portion that couples to thehook portion 2915 at a lower end thereof, such that the rear strap 2950extends below the user's ear toward the hook portion 2915. Thus, a crownstrap 2916, the hook portion 2915 and the rear strap 2950 of theheadgear 2904 cooperate to form a generally U-shaped or C-shapedprofile. One or more supports, such as elasticated or semi-rigid straps2930, can provide support between different portions of the headgear2904. For example, one or more (e.g., a pair) of straps 2930 can extendbetween the crown strap 2916 and the rear strap 2950 to support the“ends” of the U-shaped or C-shaped profile and inhibit those portionsfrom moving apart from one another. In some configurations, the straps2930 cross one another.

In the illustrated configuration, an upper portion of the mask 2902 isrotationally or pivotally coupled to the upper arm 2920 by a rotationalcoupling 2944. The lower strap 2918 can permit adjustment of arotational position of the mask 2902. For example, a length of the lowerstrap 2918 could be adjustable. In some configurations, the lower strap2918 can be constructed from an elasticated material that automaticallyadjusts a rotational position of the mask 2902.

FIG. 30 illustrates one possible construction of the rotational coupling2944. In some configurations, one of the mask 2902 and the headgear 2904supports a shaft or axle 2946 and the other of the mask 2902 and theheadgear 2904 supports a hub 2948. The hub 2948 is rotatable about theaxle 2946 to permit rotational adjustment of the mask 2902 relative tothe headgear 2904. In the illustrated arrangement, the axle 2946 iscarried by the mask 2902 and the hub 2948 is carried by the headgear2904. However, this arrangement could be reversed. If desired, a detentassembly could be utilized to maintain a desired rotational position ofthe mask 2902. In some configurations, the lower strap 2918 is utilizedto maintain a desired rotational position of the mask 2902.

FIGS. 31 and 32 illustrate an interface assembly 3100 that is arrangedand configured in accordance with certain features, aspects andadvantages of the present disclosure. The illustrated interface assembly3100 includes an interface 3102 and a headgear 3104. The illustratedinterface 3102 is a nasal-oral mask but, as described herein, othertypes of interfaces can be used with the disclosed headgear 3104. Theillustrated mask 3102 generally comprises a frame 3106 that supports aseal 3108. The mask 3102 can be connected to a supply conduit 3109,which can be used to supply breathing gases to a user. As describedabove, in some configurations, the mask 3102 can seal around a mouth ofa user and on an underside of a nose of the user. Such a mask 3102 canprovide pressurized air flow to both the nose and the mouth of the user.

The headgear 3104 can be coupled to the mask 3102 at one or moremounting locations or mounting points 3110. Preferably, a lower strapportion 3118 and an upper strap portion 3120 are provided on each sideof the headgear 3104 to connect the mask 3102 to a rear portion of theheadgear 3104. Unless indicated otherwise, features of the interfaceassembly 3100 or portions thereof can be the same as or similar to otherinterfaces or portions thereof described herein, or can be of anothersuitable arrangement. In particular, the interface assembly 3100 issimilar to the interface assembly 1300 of FIGS. 13-15 and, for the sakeof convenience, will be described in the context of the differencesrelative to that interface assembly 1300.

The upper strap portion 3120 of the headgear 3104 incorporates a cheekpad 3130, which preferably is constructed from a relatively or highlycompressible material for user comfort. FIG. 32 is an enlarged view ofthe cheek pad 3130 and upper strap portion 3120 of the opposite side ofthe headgear 3104 from that shown in FIG. 31. As illustrated, the cheekpad 3130 can have a contoured shape, with a wider portion beingpositioned closer toward the mask 3102 or centerline of the user's headthan the narrower portion. For example, the cheek pad 3130 could have agenerally teardrop shape, among other possible tapered or non-taperedshapes. The cheek pad 3130 can be secured to the upper strap 3120 by anysuitable arrangement, such as by overmolding, for example. In someconfigurations, the cheek pad 3130 can include an interior passage andthe cheek pad 3130 can be slid onto the upper strap 3120. If desired,the cheek pad 3130 can be rigid to provide a hard stop in response totightening of the headgear 3104 to at least partially isolatecompression of the mask seal 3108 from tightening forces applied to theheadgear 3104, such as described in connection with FIGS. 13-15 and75-79, for example.

The headgear 3104 can include various features configured to influencethe flexibility, strength or rigidity. For example, if the headgear 3104is constructed primarily from a flexible material, the features canalter the inherent or base properties (e.g., flexibility, strength orrigidity) of the material of the headgear 3104. In some configurations,the features can comprise one or more types of strips or ribs 3132formed into or applied to the headgear 3104 in a manner to providedesirable properties to the headgear 3104. For example, elongate ribs3132 can be provided on one or more of the upper strap 3120, a crownstrap 3116 or a rear strap 3150 of the headgear 3104. Each or any one ofthe elongate ribs 3132 can define an end portion that diverges orsplits, such as an end nearest a convergence of the upper strap 3120,crown strap 3116 or rear strap 3150. For example, the ribs 3132 of theupper strap 3120, crown strap 3116 or rear strap 3150 can increase thetensile or bending strength of the straps.

A rear portion of the bottom strap 3118 near a junction between arearward end of the bottom strap 3118 and the rear strap 3150 cancomprise a rib or ribs 3132. For example, a series of ribs 3132 can bevertically-stacked or stacked in a width direction of the strap 3118.The ribs 3132 can follow a curvature (e.g., an upward curvature) of therear portion of the rear strap 3150. The ribs 3132 of the rear strap3150 can increase the bending strength of the rear strap 3150 and canhelp the curved rearward portion of the rear strap 3150 maintain itsshape in response to loading.

The lower strap 3118 can include a series of ribs 3132 spaced from oneanother in a lengthwise direction of the strap 3132. In the illustratedarrangement, the ribs 3132 are or comprise chevrons. Such an arrangementcan inhibit folding of the strap 3118 along a lengthwise axis and/or canincrease bending strength, but can maintain the inherent axialproperties (e.g., tensile strength or flexibility in an axialdirection).

The ribs 3132 can be of any suitable arrangement. For example, the ribs3132 could be formed into the material of the headgear 3104 (e.g.,thermoformed). The ribs 3132 could protrude outwardly from an adjacentor base surface of the headgear 3104 or could extend inwardly from anadjacent or base surface of the headgear 3104. In some configurations,the ribs 3132 could be additional structures that are attached (e.g.,adhesive, RF welding, ultrasonic welding, thermoforming, stitching,chemical bonding, mechanical bonding or otherwise adhered) to the baseheadgear 3104 structure. The features of the headgear 3104 can beapplied to any of the other headgear arrangements described herein.

FIG. 33 illustrates an interface assembly 3300 that is arranged andconfigured in accordance with certain features, aspects and advantagesof the present disclosure. The illustrated interface assembly 3300includes an interface 3302 and a headgear 3304. The illustratedinterface 3302 is a nasal-oral mask but, as described herein, othertypes of interfaces can be used with the disclosed headgear 3304. Theillustrated mask 3302 generally comprises a frame 3306 that supports aseal 3308. The mask 3302 can be connected to a supply conduit (notshown), which can be used to supply breathing gases to a user. Asdescribed above, in some configurations, the mask 3302 can seal around amouth of a user and on an underside of a nose of the user. Such a mask3302 can provide pressurized air flow to both the nose and the mouth ofthe user.

The headgear 3304 can be coupled to the mask 3302 at one or moremounting locations or mounting points 3310. Preferably, a lower strapportion 3318 and an upper strap portion 3320 are provided on each sideof the headgear 3304 to connect the mask 3302 to a rear portion of theheadgear 3304. Unless indicated otherwise, features of the interfaceassembly 3300 or portions thereof can be the same as or similar to otherinterfaces or portions thereof described herein, or can be of anothersuitable arrangement.

The headgear 3304 can comprise a rigid portion or portions and a lessrigid portion or portions. In the illustrated arrangement, the upper arm3320 is constructed from a relatively rigid or rigid material. Otherportions of the headgear 3304 can be constructed from a relatively lessrigid material, such as flexible material. For example, a crown strap3316 can be coupled to the rigid upper arm 3320 and can be constructedfrom a less rigid material. In some configurations, the headgear 3304can include a rear strap 3350 that is coupled to the rigid upper arm3320 and can be constructed from a less rigid material. In theillustrated arrangement, the less rigid portions (e.g., the crown strap3316, the rear strap 3350 or the lower arm 3318) of the headgear 3304can be coupled to the rigid upper arm 3320 such that forces applied tothe less rigid portions are substantially or primarily axial. That is,preferably, the forces applied to the less rigid portion are generallyaligned with a lengthwise direction of the portions, in a directionaligned with a geometric axis of the portions or otherwise aligned witha direction in which the portions are configured to resist elongation.In some configurations, an axial direction can include a directionpassing through end points or end portions of a strap or other componentor a direction along which forces are applied to the strap or othercomponent. In some cases, the axial direction may not coincide with theshape of the strap or other component, but may define a virtual axis.

FIG. 34 illustrates an interface assembly 3400 that is arranged andconfigured in accordance with certain features, aspects and advantagesof the present disclosure. The illustrated interface assembly 3400includes an interface 3402 and a headgear 3404. The illustratedinterface 3402 is a nasal-oral mask but, as described herein, othertypes of interfaces can be used with the disclosed headgear 3404. Theillustrated mask 3402 generally comprises a frame 3406 that supports aseal 3408. The mask 3402 can be connected to a supply conduit (notshown), which can be used to supply breathing gases to a user. Asdescribed above, in some configurations, the mask 3402 can seal around amouth of a user and on an underside of a nose of the user. Such a mask3402 can provide pressurized air flow to both the nose and the mouth ofthe user.

The headgear 3404 can be coupled to the mask 3402 at one or moremounting locations or mounting points 3410. Preferably, a strap portion3420 is provided on each side of the headgear 3404 to connect the mask3402 to a rear portion of the headgear 3404. In the illustratedarrangement, the strap portion 3420 is positioned in a manner similar tothe upper straps/arms in other arrangements disclosed herein and thelower strap can be omitted. Thus, the strap 3420 on each side can be theonly connection between the mask 3402 and a rear portion of the headgear3404. The strap 3420 can be oriented generally perpendicular withrespect to a halo portion 3414 of the headgear 3404, which can bedefined by a combination of a crown strap portion 3416 and a rear strapportion 3450. Preferably, the crown strap portion 3416 and the rearstrap portion 3450 are aligned with one another such that the haloportion 3414 is generally flat or planar. The strap 3420 can extendupwardly from the mask 3402 and above the user's ear to the halo portion3414 and can be generally straight or only slightly curved in comparisonto many upper strap portions disclosed herein.

The halo portion 3414 can have a forward portion 3414a and a rearwardportion 3414 b. The strap 3420 can be coupled to the rearward portion3414 b and gussets 3460 can extend between the strap 3420 and theforward portion 3414 a of the halo portion 3414 on one or both sides ofthe strap 3420. The strap 3420 and the halo portion 3414 can beconstructed from a relatively rigid material or a relatively less-rigidmaterial or any combination thereof. In some configurations, the strap3420 can be constructed from a relatively rigid material and the haloportion 3414 can be constructed from a relatively less rigid material.Otherwise, features of the interface assembly 3400 or portions thereofcan be the same as or similar to other interfaces or portions thereofdescribed herein, or can be of another suitable arrangement.

FIG. 35 illustrates a portion of an interface assembly 3500 that isarranged and configured in accordance with certain features, aspects andadvantages of the present disclosure. The illustrated interface assembly3500 includes an interface 3502 and a headgear 3504. The illustratedinterface 3502 is a nasal-oral mask but, as described herein, othertypes of interfaces can be used with the disclosed headgear 3504. Theillustrated mask 3502 generally comprises a frame 3506 that supports aseal 3508. The mask 3502 can be connected to a supply conduit 3509,which can be used to supply breathing gases to a user. As describedabove, in some configurations, the mask 3502 can seal around a mouth ofa user and on an underside of a nose of the user. Such a mask 3502 canprovide pressurized air flow to both the nose and the mouth of the user.

The headgear 3504 can be coupled to the mask 3502 at one or moremounting locations or mounting points 3510. Preferably, a lower strapportion 3518 and an upper strap portion 3520 are provided on each sideof the headgear 3504 to connect the mask 3502 to a rear portion of theheadgear 3504. Unless indicated otherwise, features of the interfaceassembly 3500 or portions thereof can be the same as or similar to otherinterfaces or portions thereof described herein, or can be of anothersuitable arrangement.

The lower strap 3518 and the upper strap 3520 can be coupled to the mask3502 by quick-release mechanisms, such as snap-locks or clips (e.g.,hook-and-bar arrangement) 3530. The lower strap 3518 and upper strap3520 can be rotatable relative to the clips 3530 to permit angularadjustment of the straps 3518, 3520. For example, the ends of the straps3518, 3520 can carry pins 3532 that engage openings of the clips 3530.The portions of the mask 3502 that receive the clips 3530 can define oneor more elongate protrusions 3534, surfaces of which extend outwardlybeyond adjacent surfaces of the mask 3402. In some configurations, asurface between the portions of the mask 3502 that receive the clips3530 is recessed such that a pair of protrusions 3534 is provided. Suchan arrangement can provide tactile indications of the proper locationsfor engaging the clips 3530 with the mask in addition to providing aunique appearance.

FIG. 36 illustrates an arrangement in which the clips 3530 are coupledto one another such that both clips 3530 and both straps 3518, 3520 canbe coupled to the mask 3502 in a single action. For example, a bridge orstrut portion 3540 can extend in a vertical direction between the clips3530, which could be angled relative to one another. The clips 3530 andstrut 3540 can be formed from a single piece of material, if desired. Inaddition, in the arrangement of FIG. 36, the pins 3532 are carried bythe clips 3530 and corresponding openings are provided in the ends ofthe straps 3518, 3520.

FIG. 37 illustrates an interface assembly 3700 that is arranged andconfigured in accordance with certain features, aspects and advantagesof the present disclosure. The illustrated interface assembly 3700includes an interface 3702 and a headgear 3704. The illustratedinterface 3702 is a nasal-oral mask but, as described herein, othertypes of interfaces can be used with the disclosed headgear 3704. Theillustrated mask 3702 generally comprises a frame 3706 that supports aseal 3708. The mask 3702 can be connected to a supply conduit 3709,which can be used to supply breathing gases to a user. As describedabove, in some configurations, the mask 3702 can seal around a mouth ofa user and on an underside of a nose of the user. Such a mask 3702 canprovide pressurized air flow to both the nose and the mouth of the user.

The headgear 3704 can be coupled to the mask 3702 at one or moremounting locations or mounting points 3710. Preferably, a lower strapportion 3718 and an upper strap portion 3720 are provided on each sideof the headgear 3704 and connect to the mask 3702 by any suitablearrangement, such as by a quick-release mechanism (e.g., snap-lock orclips). In the illustrated arrangement, the straps 3718, 3720 extendfrom one side of the mask 3702 to the other and central portions of thestraps 3718, 3720 form a rear portion of the headgear 3704. In addition,the lower strap 3718 connects to the mask 3702 at an upper mountingpoint 3710 and the upper strap 3720 connects to the mask 3702 at a lowermounting point 3710 such that the straps 3718, 3720 cross one anotherrearwardly of the mask 3702, preferably between the mask 3702 and theuser's ear. The straps 3718, 3720 can be coupled to one another at thelocation in which they cross, if desired. The straps 3718, 3720 can beconstructed of a flexible material, which may be elasticated, and canincluded enlarged width rear portions 3718 a, 3720 a to spread load foruser comfort. In other arrangements, the straps 3718, 3720 could connectto a separate rear portion of a headgear 3704. Unless indicatedotherwise, features of the interface assembly 3700 or portions thereofcan be the same as or similar to other interfaces or portions thereofdescribed herein, or can be of another suitable arrangement.

FIGS. 38 and 39 illustrate an interface assembly 3800 that is arrangedand configured in accordance with certain features, aspects andadvantages of the present disclosure. The illustrated interface assembly3800 includes an interface 3802 and a headgear 3804. The illustratedinterface 3802 is a nasal-oral mask but, as described herein, othertypes of interfaces can be used with the disclosed headgear 3804. Theillustrated mask 3802 generally comprises a frame 3806 that supports aseal 3808. The mask 3802 can be connected to a supply conduit (notshown), which can be used to supply breathing gases to a user. Asdescribed above, in some configurations, the mask 3802 can seal around amouth of a user and on an underside of a nose of the user. Such a mask3802 can provide pressurized air flow to both the nose and the mouth ofthe user.

The headgear 3804 can be coupled to the mask 3802 at one or moremounting locations or mounting points 3810 by any suitable coupling,such as a quick-release mechanism, for example. Preferably, a strapportion 3820 is provided on each side of the headgear 3804 to connectthe mask 3802 to a rear portion of the headgear 3804. In the illustratedarrangement, the headgear 3804 includes a single strap portion 3820 thatis coupled to the mask 3802 at a single, vertically-elongated mountingpoint 3810 on each side of the interface assembly 3800. The strapportion 3820 can pass directly over the user's ear and, in someconfigurations, is wide enough to cover most, substantially all or theuser's entire ear. The strap 3820 can extend all the way from one sideof the mask 3802 to the other side and a central portion of the strap3820 can define a rear strap portion 3850, which can include a vent 3852to reduce heat build-up under the strap portion 3850. The vent 3852 canbe constructed of a mesh or other breathable material and can extendalong a substantial entirety of a length of the rear strap portion 3850.The vent 3852 can also extend along a substantial portion of the heightof the rear strap portion 3850 such that the vent 3852 occupies asubstantial portion of an overall area of the rear strap portion 3850,such as at least about 50, 60, 70 or 80% of an overall area. Preferably,the vent 3852 is of a sufficient size to significantly reduce heatbuild-up under the rear strap portion 3850 relative to a similarly sizedstrap without a vent. In some configurations, the vent 3852 is sized tomaximize vented area while not compromising the structure of the strapportion 3850 or creating pressure points on the user's head.

The headgear 3804 can include a top strap 3860 that can extend upwardlyfrom a center of the mask 3802 over top of the user's head and connectto the rear strap portion 3850. The top strap 3860 can extend along theuser's nose, between the eyes and can bifurcate into two strap portions3860 a, 3860 b to form a triangulated arrangement with the rear strapportion 3850 and form a halo portion 3814. The top strap 3860 can applyan upwardly-directed force to the mask 3802 to assist in creating a sealagainst the underside of the user's nose. In some configurations, alength of the top strap 3860 is adjustable to allow for adjustment of aposition of and/or upward force applied to the mask 3802. In otherrespects, features of the interface assembly 3800 or portions thereofcan be the same as or similar to other interfaces or portions thereofdescribed herein, or can be of another suitable arrangement.

FIG. 40 illustrates an interface assembly 4000 that is arranged andconfigured in accordance with certain features, aspects and advantagesof the present disclosure. The illustrated interface assembly 4000includes an interface 4002 and a headgear 4004. The illustratedinterface 4002 is a nasal-oral mask but, as described herein, othertypes of interfaces can be used with the disclosed headgear 4004. Theillustrated mask 4002 generally comprises a frame 4006 that supports aseal 4008. The mask 4002 can be connected to a supply conduit 4009,which can be used to supply breathing gases to a user. As describedabove, in some configurations, the mask 4002 can seal around a mouth ofa user and on an underside of a nose of the user. Such a mask 4002 canprovide pressurized air flow to both the nose and the mouth of the user.

The headgear 4004 can be coupled to the mask 4002 at one or moremounting locations or mounting points 4010 by any suitable couplingarrangement. In the illustrated arrangement, the headgear 4004 includesa single strap portion 4020 that is coupled to the mask 4002 at asingle, vertically-elongated mounting point 4010 on each side of theinterface assembly 4000. The strap 4020 can extend all the way from oneside of the mask 4002 to the other side. Preferably, the strap 4020 isbifurcated rearwardly of the mask 4002 to define an upper strap 4020 aand a lower strap 4020 b that pass above and below the user's ear,respectively. Central portions of the upper strap 4020 a and the lowerstrap 4020 b can be enlarged in a width or vertical direction to spreada load applied to the user's head over a relatively large area forcomfort.

Each side of the mask 4002 can include an elongate slot 4030 throughwhich the strap 4020 can pass. End portions 4040 of the strap 4020 canfold over to form a loop and can be secured to a portion of the strap4020 rearward of the mask 4002 by a suitable fastener, such as ahook-and-loop fastener, for example. The end portions 4040 of the strap4020 can include a finger tab 4032, which can provide a finger grip areato facilitate assembly and adjustment of the strap 4020 relative to themask 4002. The slot 4030 can be generally or substantially straight and,in some configurations, can be generally or substantially aligned with arearward surface of the mask 4002 (e.g., rearward surface of the frame4006 and/or seal 4008). An overall size or circumference of theinterface assembly 4000 can be adjusted by altering a length of the endportions 4040 of the strap 4020 that are pulled through the slot 4030 tovary a size of the loop. Angular adjustment of the mask 4002 can beaccomplished by moving the end portions 4040 in a generally verticaldirection to alter a vertical orientation of a forward end or fold 4042of the end portions 4040 of the strap 4020. That is, the end portion4040 can be moved or angled upwardly to pull in the bottom of the mask4002 relative to the top of the mask 4002. Conversely, the end portion4040 can be moved or angled downwardly to pull in the top of the mask4002 relative to the bottom of the mask 4002. Thus, preferably, thestraps 4020 increase in height (in the illustrated orientation or in awidth direction of the strap 4020, itself) in a direction from each ofthe end portions 4040 toward the center of the strap 4020 to providesurface area of the strap 4020 for upward and downward adjustment of theend portions 4040 of the strap 4020. In other respects, features of theinterface assembly 4000 or portions thereof can be the same as orsimilar to other interfaces or portions thereof described herein, or canbe of another suitable arrangement.

FIGS. 41 and 42 illustrate an interface assembly 4000 that is similar inmany respects to the interface assembly 4000 of FIG. 40. Therefore, thesame reference numbers are used to refer to the same or correspondingcomponents or features. In addition, the interface assembly 4000 ofFIGS. 41 and 42 is described in the context of the differences relativeto the interface assembly 4000 of FIG. 40. Features of the interfaceassembly 4000 or portions thereof not specifically described can beassumed to be the same as or similar to features of the interfaceassembly 4000 of FIG. 40, other interfaces or portions thereof describedherein, or can be of another suitable arrangement.

In the arrangement of FIGS. 41 and 42, the upper strap 4020 a and thelower strap 4020 b can be positioned closer to one another than in thearrangement of FIG. 40. For example, the upper strap 4020 a can bepositioned lower on the user's head (e.g., at or near an upper edge ofthe occipital bone) and can pass just above the user's ear. The lowerstrap 4020 b can be positioned higher on the user's head, such as abovethe user's neck muscled and/or on the occipital bone. In addition, theupper strap 4020 a and the lower strap 4020 b can be connected by one ormore vertical connecting portions 4050. For example, on each side of theinterface assembly 4000, a first vertical connecting portion 4050 can bepositioned behind the user's ear and a second vertical connectingportion 4050 can be positioned further rearward of the first verticalconnecting portion 4050. The vertical connecting portions 4050 cansecure the upper strap 4020 a and the lower strap 4020 b in desiredpositioned relative to one another and inhibit or prevent migration ofthe straps 4020 a, 4020 b apart from one another.

FIG. 43 illustrates an interface assembly 4000 that is similar in manyrespects to the interface assemblies 4000 of FIGS. 40-42. Therefore, thesame reference numbers are used to refer to the same or correspondingcomponents or features. In addition, the interface assembly 4000 of FIG.43 is described in the context of the differences relative to theinterface assemblies 4000 of FIGS. 40-42. Features of the interfaceassembly 4000 or portions thereof not specifically described can beassumed to be the same as or similar to features of the interfaceassembly 4000 of FIGS. 40-42, other interfaces or portions thereofdescribed herein, or can be of another suitable arrangement.

The positioning of the upper strap 4020 a and the lower strap 4020 b ofthe headgear 4004 of FIG. 43 relative to the user's head can be similarto the straps in the headgear 4004 of FIG. 40. However, preferably, oneor more connecting straps 4050 are provided that extend between andconnect the upper strap 4020 a and the lower strap 4020 b, similar tothe headgear 4004 of FIGS. 41 and 42.

In addition, the strap 4020 can be connected to the mask 4002 in adifferent manner. For example, the upper strap 4020 a and the lowerstrap 4020 b can be coupled to the mask 4002 at separate mounting points4010. In some configurations, the straps 4020 a, 4020 b can be coupledto the mask 4002 by connectors having some amount of elasticity. In someconfigurations, the elasticity is relatively low. For example, theconnectors can be silicone tension straps 4060. Such silicon tensionstraps 4060 can provide for rotational adjustment and tensioning of themask 4002 against the user's face. However, other adjusters for the mask4002 and/or headgear 4004 could also be provided. In addition, othermaterials with properties (e.g., elasticity, flexibility) similar tosilicone could also be used.

FIGS. 44 and 45 illustrate an interface assembly 3800 that is similar inmany respects to the interface assembly 3800 of FIGS. 38 and 39.Therefore, the same reference numbers are used to refer to the same orcorresponding components or features. In addition, the interfaceassembly 3800 of FIGS. 44 and 45 is described in the context of thedifferences relative to the interface assembly 3800 of FIGS. 38 and 39.Features of the interface assembly 3800 or portions thereof notspecifically described can be assumed to be the same as or similar tofeatures of the interface assembly 3800 of FIGS. 38 and 39, otherinterfaces or portions thereof described herein, or can be of anothersuitable arrangement.

Unlike the strap portion 3820 of the headgear 3804 of FIGS. 38 and 39,the strap portion 3820 of FIGS. 44 and 45 preferably does not cover theuser's ear. Rather, the strap portion 3820 preferably passes below theuser's ear. The rear portion 3850 of the strap 3820 can be smaller inheight (or width of the strap 3820, itself) compared to the rear portion3850 of FIGS. 38 and 30. In some configurations, the strap 3820 iscoupled to the mask 3802 by a rotatable coupling, such as thosedescribed in connection with FIGS. 35 and 36 or elsewhere herein.

In addition, the mask 3802 can include support portions, such as paddles3870 that support the upper portion of the seal 3808. For example, thepaddles 3870 can be a portion of or can be connected to the mask frame3806 and can be positioned on lateral sides of the upper portion of theseal 3808 to provide support to the seal 3808 and maintain the seal 3808in contact with the user's nose when the seal 3808 is pressurized. Insome configurations, the paddles 3870 are constructed from silicone, ora similar material. In addition, FIG. 45 illustrates the supply conduit3809.

FIG. 46 illustrates an interface assembly 4600 that is similar in manyrespects to the interface assembly 3500 of FIGS. 35 and 36 and theinterface assembly 4000 of FIG. 43. The interface assembly 4600 isdescribed primarily in the context of the differences relative to theinterface assemblies 3500 and 4000. Features of the interface assembly3500 or portions thereof not specifically described can be assumed to bethe same as or similar to features of the interface assemblies 3500 or4000, other interfaces or portions thereof described herein, or can beof another suitable arrangement.

The interface assembly 4600 utilizes an interface or mask 4602 that issubstantially similar to the mask 3502 of FIG. 35 and a headgear 4604that is substantially similar to the headgear 4004 of FIG. 43. Inparticular, the mask 4602 preferably includes a frame 4606 and a seal4608. A supply conduit 4609 delivers breathing gases to a user. Asdescribed above, in some configurations, the mask 4602 can seal around amouth of a user and on an underside of a nose of the user. Such a mask4602 can provide pressurized air flow to both the nose and the mouth ofthe user.

The headgear 4604 can be coupled to the mask 4602 at one or moremounting locations or mounting points 4610 by any suitable couplingarrangement. For example, the headgear can comprise a strap 4620 havingan upper strap portion 4620 a and a lower strap portion 4620 b coupledto each side of the mask 4602 at separate mounting points 4610. Aconnecting strap portion 4650 couples the upper strap portion 4620 a andthe lower strap portion 4620 b. The connecting strap portion 4650 can beprovided on each side of the headgear 4604 behind the user's ear.

One or both of the upper strap 4620 a and the lower strap 4620 b can becoupled to the mask 4602 by any suitable arrangement. In someconfigurations, the straps 4620 a, 4620 b are coupled to the mask 4602by quick-release mechanisms, such as snap-locks or clips (e.g.,hook-and-bar arrangement) 4630. In some configurations, the straps 4620a, 4620 b can be rotatable relative to the clips 4630 to permit angularadjustment of the straps 4620 a, 4620 b. The portions of the mask 4602that receive the clips 4630 can define one or more elongate protrusions4634, surfaces of which extend outwardly beyond adjacent surfaces of themask 4602. In some configurations, a surface between the portions of themask 4602 that receive the clips 4630 or straps 4620 a, 4620 b isrecessed such that a pair of protrusions 4634 is provided. Such anarrangement can provide tactile indications of the proper locations forengaging the clips 4630 with the mask in addition to providing a uniqueappearance. Unless indicated otherwise, features of the interfaceassembly 4600 or portions thereof can be the same as or similar to otherinterfaces or portions thereof described herein, or can be of anothersuitable arrangement.

FIG. 47 illustrates an interface assembly 4000 that is similar in manyrespects to the interface assembly 4000 of FIG. 40 and the interfaceassembly 4000 of FIGS. 41 and 42. Therefore, the same reference numbersare used to refer to the same or corresponding components or features.In addition, the interface assembly 4000 of FIG. 47 is described in thecontext of the differences relative to the interface assemblies 4000 ofFIGS. 40-42. Features of the interface assembly 4000 or portions thereofnot specifically described can be assumed to be the same as or similarto features of the interface assemblies 4000 of FIGS. 40-42, otherinterfaces or portions thereof described herein, or can be of anothersuitable arrangement.

In the arrangement of FIG. 47, the upper strap 4020 a and the lowerstrap 4020 b can be positioned relative to one another in a mannersimilar to the arrangement of FIGS. 44 and 42. In addition, the upperstrap 4020 a and the lower strap 4020 b are similarly connected by oneor more vertical connecting portions 4050. In the illustratedarrangement, a vertical connecting portion 4050 can be positioned behindthe user's ear on each side of the interface assembly 4000. A crownstrap 4016 can extend over the top of the user's head from one side ofthe upper strap 4020 a to the other side of the upper strap 4020a. Insome configurations, the crown strap 4016 can be aligned with theconnecting portions 4050.

The headgear 4004 can be constructed as a composite structure of arelatively rigid material and a relatively less rigid material. Forexample, a flexible material, such as a textile material, can beutilized to construct a base 4060 of the headgear. A semi-rigid or rigidmaterial can be applied to the base 4060 to form a support structure4062. One example of a semi-rigid material is polypropylene sheetmaterial having a thickness of about 0.5 millimeters, for example. Thesupport structure 4062 can be bonded to an outer surface of the base4060, such as with an adhesive, RF welding, ultrasonic welding,thermoforming, stitching, chemical bonding, mechanical bonding or anyother suitable method. In the illustrated arrangement, the base 4060 hasa greater width than the support structure 4062. The support structure4062 can be provided on some portions or a substantial entirety of theheadgear 4004. For example, preferably, the support structure 4062extends along at least a substantial length of the upper strap 4020 a,lower strap 4020 b, the crown strap 4016 and the connecting straps 4050.In some configurations, the support structure can be constructed from asingle piece of material.

FIG. 48 illustrates a low-profile adjustment arrangement 4800 that canbe used to adjust a length of a headgear strap, such as any of thestraps of the headgear 4004 of FIG. 47. In one arrangement, thelow-profile adjustment arrangement 4800 is utilized in the crown strap4016 of the headgear 4004 of FIG. 47. In the illustrated arrangement,the crown strap 4016 is split along its length into a first crown strapportion 4016 a and a second crown strap portion 4016 b. The first crownstrap portion 4016 a comprises a first component 4802 of a fastener,such as a hook-and-loop fastener, and the second crown strap portion4016 b comprises a second component 4804 of the fastener. The firstcomponent 4802 can be selectively engaged at a desired position with thesecond component 4804 to adjust a length of the crown strap 4016.

In some configurations, the first component 4802 is carried by orsecured to one of the base 4060 and the support structure 4062 of thecrown strap 4016 and the second component 4804 is carried by or securedto the other of the base 4060 and the support structure 4062 of thecrown strap 4016. Such an arrangement takes advantage of the dual layerconstruction of the crown strap 4016 to provide adjustment withoutdoubling the thickness of the crown strap 4016. In some configurations,an end of at least one of the first crown strap portion 4016 a and thesecond crown strap portion 4016 b comprises a loop 4810 that surroundsthe other of the first crown strap portion 4016 a and the second crownstrap portion 4016 b to facilitate maintaining axial alignment of thefirst crown strap portion 4016 a and the second crown strap portion 4016b.

FIG. 49 illustrates an interface assembly 4900 that is arranged andconfigured in accordance with certain features, aspects and advantagesof the present disclosure. The illustrated interface assembly 4900includes an interface 4902 and a headgear 4904. The illustratedinterface 4902 is a nasal-oral mask but, as described herein, othertypes of interfaces can be used with the disclosed headgear 4904. Theillustrated mask 4902 generally comprises a frame 4906 that supports aseal 4908. The mask 4902 can be connected to a supply conduit 4909,which can be used to supply breathing gases to a user. As describedabove, in some configurations, the mask 4902 can seal around a mouth ofa user and on an underside of a nose of the user. Such a mask 4902 canprovide pressurized air flow to both the nose and the mouth of the user.The mask frame 4906 can include or carry support structures 4970 forproviding lateral support to an upper portion of the mask seal 4908. Thesupport structures 4970 can be the same as or similar to the paddles3870 of FIGS. 44 and 45.

The headgear 4904 can be coupled to the mask 4902 at one or moremounting locations or mounting points 4910. In some configurations, themask 4902 can be rotatably coupled to the headgear 4904 by a rotationalcoupling 4944, which can be substantially similar to the rotationalcouplings of FIG. 29, 35 or 36, for example. In addition, the headgear4904 can include a lower strap or lower arm 4918 on each side of theinterface assembly 4900 that pass below the user's ears and can omitupper straps. Thus, in some configurations, the lower arms 4918 are theonly connections between the mask 4902 and the headgear 4904. Theheadgear 4904 can include a rear portion 4914, which can be a rear haloportion or can be of a similar arrangement. In some configurations, therear portion 4914 is not annular in shape. The rear portion 4914 cancomprise a cradle structure that extends in a vertical direction alongthe back of the user's head and, in some configurations, from a locationat or near a lower end of the user's head to a location at or near acrown of the user's head. The cradle structure of the rear portion 4914can be curved in a vertical and/or horizontal direction to generallyconform to the shape of the user's head.

The lower arm 4918 can comprise an adjustment arrangement 4960 thatpermits a distance between the mask 4902 and the rear portion 4914 ofthe headgear 4904 to be adjusted. In the illustrated interface 4900, theadjustment arrangement 4960 comprises a sliding arrangement. Inparticular, the adjustment arrangement 4960 comprises a first armportion 4962 that is fixed for movement with the rear portion 4914 in atleast a fore-aft direction and a second arm portion 4964 that is fixedfor movement with the mask 4902 in at least a fore-aft direction. Insome configurations, the second arm portion 4964 can be integral orunitary with a portion of the mask 4902 (e.g., the mask frame 4906).

The first arm portion 4962 and the second arm portion 4964 are slidablyor telescopically engaged with one another, for example by one or moreloops 4966 coupled to one of the first arm portion 4962 and the secondarm portion 4964, which surround the other of the first arm portion 4962and the second arm portion 4964. Thus, movement of the second armportion 4964 relative to the first arm portion 4962 can adjust aretention force applied to the mask 4902. Preferably, the adjustmentarrangement 4960 secures the arm portions 4962, 4964 and, thus, the mask4902 and headgear 4904 in a desired position once adjusted. For example,the loops 4966 can frictionally engage the arm portion 4962 or 4964. Inother configurations, a lock arrangement can be provided to secure thearm portions 4962 or 4964 in a desired position. Other suitablearrangements could also be used. In other respects, features of theinterface assembly 4900 or portions thereof can be the same as orsimilar to other interfaces or portions thereof described herein, or canbe of another suitable arrangement.

FIG. 50 illustrates an interface assembly 5000 that is arranged andconfigured in accordance with certain features, aspects and advantagesof the present disclosure. Unless indicated otherwise, features of theinterface assembly 5000 or portions thereof can be the same as orsimilar to other interfaces or portions thereof described herein, or canbe of another suitable arrangement. The illustrated interface assembly5000 includes an interface 5002 and a headgear 5004. The illustratedinterface 5002 is a nasal-oral mask but, as described herein, othertypes of interfaces can be used with the disclosed headgear 5004. Theillustrated mask 5002 generally comprises a frame 5006 that supports aseal 5008. The mask 5002 can be connected to a supply conduit (notshown), which can be used to supply breathing gases to a user.

As described above, in some configurations, the mask 5002 can sealaround a mouth of a user and on an underside of a nose of the user. Sucha mask 5002 can provide pressurized air flow to both the nose and themouth of the user. The mask 5002 can include supports or paddles 5070that extend upwardly from the mask frame 5006 along the sides of thenose portion of the seal 5008 to provide lateral support to the noseportions of the mask seal 5008. The supports 5070 can be permanently orremovably coupled to the mask 5002. In the illustrated configuration,the supports 5070 are removably coupled to the mask frame 5006 and canbe provided in several sizes or shapes to allow a user to fine tune theamount of support provided to the sides of the nose portion of the seal5008.

The headgear 5004 can be coupled to the mask 5002 at one or moremounting locations or mounting points 5010. Preferably, a lower strapportion 5018 and an upper strap portion 5020 are provided on each sideof the headgear 5004 to connect the mask 5002 to a rear portion of theheadgear 5004. In the illustrated arrangement, the lower strap 5018 andthe upper strap 5020 on at least one side of the mask 5002 are coupledto the mask 5002 by a single clip 5030, which can be the same as orsimilar to the arrangement described in connection with FIGS. 35 and 36.In some configurations, a clip 5030 is provided on only one side of themask 5002. The straps 5018, 5020 can be permanently coupled to the mask5002 on the other side or coupled in a manner that is not as convenientto connect and remove as the clip 5030 (e.g., coupled via an adjustmentmechanism).

The clip 5030 and the mask frame 5006 can be configured in acomplementary manner to facilitate location of the proper position ofthe clip 5030 for engagement with the mask 5002 and/or to inhibitundesired disengagement of the clip 5030 from the mask 5002. Forexample, the mask frame 5006 can comprise one or more edges 5032 thatcooperate to define a recess for receiving the clip 5030. In theillustrated arrangement, the edges 5032 define a rearwardly-openingrecess and the clip 5030 passes through the rearward opening 5034. Insome configurations, the clip 5030 is configured to occupy an entiretyor a substantial entirety of the recess defined by the edges 5032. Thus,an outwardly-facing surface 5036 of the clip 5030 can be flush with anoutwardly-facing surface 5038 of adjacent portions of the mask frame5006, at least at locations in which the clip 5030 and the mask frame5006 meet. With such an arrangement, the edges 5032 of the recessinhibit the clip 5030 from moving in a direction (e.g., forwardly) thatwould permit undesired or unintentional disengagement of the clip 5030from the mask 5002. However, a user could intentionally move the clip5030, for example, in a lateral direction away from the mask frame 5006and out of engagement with the mask 5002.

As illustrated by the arrows in FIG. 50, the clip 5030 can be broughtadjacent to the mask frame 5002 and, preferably, at least slightlyforward of the recess defined by the edges 5032. The edges 5032 canprovide tactile feedback to the user to facilitate identification of theproper location for the clip 5030. The clip 5030 can be moved or allowedto move rearwardly and into engagement with the recess defined by theedges 5032. In some configurations, a forward end of the clip 5030 canbe first engaged with the recess and then a rear portion of the clip5030 can be moved inwardly into engagement with the recess. In some suchconfigurations, a rear portion 5040 of the clip 5030 can abut against arear edge 5042 of the mask frame 5006 to inhibit undesired forwardmovement and/or undesired or unintentional disengagement of the clip5030 from the mask frame 5006.

In some configurations, the clip 5030 defines one or more finger accessor finger grip portions 5050, which can provide a convenient locationfor the user to grasp the clip 5030. In some configurations, the fingergrip portion 5050 provides tactile feedback to the user to facilitatenon-visual location of the clip 5030. In the illustrated arrangement, afinger grip portion 5050 is provided between and at a forward end of aspace 5052 defined by rearward protruding portions 5054 of the clip5030. Finger grip portions 5050 are also provided on upper and loweredges of the clip 5030. Any combination or all of the illustratedlocations can be used. The protruding portions 5054 can be generallyaligned with a length or axial direction of the straps 5018, 5020.

FIGS. 51-57 illustrate interface assemblies 5000 that are similar inmany respects to the interface assembly 5000 of FIG. 50. Therefore, thesame reference numbers are used to refer to the same or correspondingcomponents or features. In addition, the interface assemblies 5000 ofFIG. 51-57 are described in the context of the differences relative tothe interface assembly 5000 of FIG. 50 and/or the differences relativeto each other. Features of the interface assemblies 5000 or portionsthereof not specifically described can be assumed to be the same as orsimilar to features of the interface assembly 5000 of FIG. 50, otherinterfaces or portions thereof described herein, or can be of anothersuitable arrangement.

The interface assembly 5000 of FIG. 51 places the finger grip portion5050 on a forward portion of the clip 5030. In particular, the fingergrip portion 5050 is defined by a raised or outwardly offset portion ona forward edge of the clip 5030. The finger grip portion 5050 can begenerally centered in a vertical direction of the clip 5030. The maskframe 5006 can define a recessed portion 5060 that is positionedadjacent the finger grip portion 5050 and facilitates the user accessingthe inward-facing surface of the finger grip portion 5050. In theinterface assembly 5000 of FIG. 52, the finger grip portion 5050 is notraised relative to a surrounding portion of the clip 5030. Instead, therecessed portion 5060 of the mask frame 5006 can be configured (e.g.,enlarged relative to the portion 5060 of FIG. 51) to facilitate accessto the finger grip portion 5050.

The interface assembly 5000 of FIG. 53 is similar to FIG. 52 in that thefinger grip portion 5050 is not raised or outwardly offset relative tosurrounding portions of the clip 5030. However, the recessed portion5060 of the mask frame 5006 can extend along a substantial portion or asubstantial entirety of a front edge of the clip 5030. In someconfigurations, the recessed portion 5060 has a length that is asubstantial portion of the overall height of the mask frame 5006, suchas at least about one-half or at least about two-thirds of a height ofthe mask frame 5006.

The interface assembly 5000 of FIG. 54 incorporates a lock arrangement5070 to secure the clip 5030 to the mask frame 5006. The lockarrangement 5070 can be in addition to or in alternative to otherengagement features of the clip 5030 (e.g., hook-and-bar arrangement).The lock arrangement 5070 can comprise a snap-lock feature, such as aresilient locking clip 5072, for example and without limitation. Theresilient locking clip 5072 can be placed on either the mask frame 5006or the clip 5030 and can be located in a manner similar to the fingergrip portions 5050 or recessed portions 5060 described herein. Whenplaced on the clip 5030, the resilient locking clip 5072 can alsofunction as a finger grip portion 5050.

The interface assembly 5000 of FIGS. 55-56 is similar to the assemblies5000 of FIGS. 52 and 53. In particular, the finger grip portion 5050 ofthe clip 5030 of FIGS. 55-56 is not raised or outwardly offset relativeto adjacent portions of the clip 5030 and the recessed portion 5060 ofthe mask frame 5006 is configured to facilitate access to the fingergrip portion 5050. The recessed portion 5060 is a relatively discretestructure with a relatively sharp transition from surrounding surfacesof the clip 5030 similar to the portion 5060 of FIG. 52, but extendsalong a greater vertical distance similar to the portion 5060 of FIG.53.

FIG. 56 illustrates an example of interference or interlocking features5080 of the mask frame 5006 and the clip 5030. In the illustratedarrangement, the mask frame 5006 comprises at least one opening and,preferably, a pair of openings 5082 a, 5082 b. The forward opening 5082a is completely surrounded by the mask frame 5006, while the rearopening 5082 b is only partially surrounded by the mask frame 5006. Theclip 5030 comprises at least one engagement member or engagement blockand, preferably, a pair of engagement blocks 5084 a, 5084 b configuredto engage a respective one of the openings 5082 a, 5082 b. The openings5082 a, 5082 b and engagement blocks 5084 a, 5084 b are axially-spaced(e.g., generally aligned with a direction of a force vector acting onthe clip 5030) to inhibit rotation of the clip 5030 relative to the maskframe 5006. In the illustrated arrangement, the openings 5082 a, 5082 band engagement blocks 5084 a, 5084 b are aligned in a verticaldirection; however, the openings 5082 a, 5082 b and engagement blocks5084 a, 5084 b could be offset in the vertical direction. In someconfigurations, the clip 5030 defines a recess 5086 that is shapedcomplementary to and receives an overlapping portion of the mask frame5006 when the clip 5030 is engaged with the mask frame 5006.

When engaged with the mask frame 5006, the clip 5030 exerts a generallyrearward force on the mask frame 5006 via engagement of the openings5082 a, 5082 b and engagement blocks 5084 a, 5084 b. As a result of thelaterally-curved shape of the mask frame 5006 and/or the completeperimeter engagement of the engagement block 5084 a with the surfaces ofthe mask frame 5006 defining the opening 5082 a, the force acting on theclip 5030 (which can be generated by the headgear) tends to pull theengagement block 5084 b into engagement with the opening 5082 b therebyenhancing engagement of the clip 5030 with the mask frame 5006.

FIG. 57 illustrates another example of an interlocking feature 5080between a mask frame 5006 and a clip 5030. The illustrated arrangementcomprises a hook-and-bar type interaction between the clip 5030 and theframe 5006. Preferably, the clip 5030 includes a hook 5090 that engagesan engagement surface or bar 5092 of the mask frame 5006. In someconfigurations, this arrangement could be reversed. The mask frame 5006includes an opening 5094 that accommodates the hook 5090 of the clip5030 when the clip 5030 is engaged with the mask 5002. In someconfigurations, a surface that defines a portion of the opening 5094also defines the bar 5092. The bar 5092 can be any structure or portionof a structure configured to interact with the hook 5090 and retain theclip 5030 to the mask 5002. To couple the clip 5030 to the mask 5002, aportion of the hook 5090 can be passed through the opening 5094 toengage the hook 5090 with the bar 5092 and the body of the clip 5030 canbe rotated into a resting position adjacent or against the mask 5002(e.g., mask frame 5006). To remove the clip 5030, this process can bereversed.

FIGS. 50-57 (among others herein) disclose interface assemblies 5000that permit a circumferential loop of the interface assembly 5000 to beopened to facilitate application and removal of the interface assembly5000. In such configurations, the headgear 5004 can be completelyseparated from the mask 5002 at at least one location to define an openloop. While such an open loop configuration can facilitate applicationor removal of the interface assembly 5000, it has been discovered by thepresent inventors that it can sometimes be difficult or annoying for auser to locate the loose clip 5030 or other portion of the headgear 5004for attachment to the mask 5002. Even if only one clip 5030 isdisengaged from the mask 5002, depending on the configuration of theheadgear 5004, the loose clip 5030 could move a significant distancefrom the mask 5002, such as fall behind the head of the user, forexample. If clips 5030 on both sides of the mask 5002 are disengaged,complete separation of the headgear 5004 from the mask 5002 can occur.Accordingly, in some applications or uses, it can be desirable to tetherthe clip 5030 to the mask 5002 to facilitate location of the clip 5030,especially when visual location is difficult or not possible. Theinterface assemblies 5800 of FIGS. 58-61 are closed loop configurations,which move between an expanded orientation, which facilitatesapplication or removal of the interface assembly 5800, and a contractedorientation. Preferably, the interface assemblies 5800 are elasticatedclosed loop configurations, in which an elasticated tetheringarrangement maintains a closed loop, but permits expansion orenlargement of the circumference of the interface assembly 5800 tofacilitate application or removal.

The interface assemblies 5800 of FIGS. 58-61 generally include aninterface 5802 and a headgear 5804. The illustrated interface 5802 is anasal-oral mask but, as described herein, other types of interfaces canbe used with the disclosed headgear 5804. The illustrated mask 5802generally comprises a frame 5806 that supports a seal 5808. The mask5802 can be connected to a supply conduit (not shown), which can be usedto supply breathing gases to a user. As described above, in someconfigurations, the mask 5802 can seal around a mouth of a user and onan underside of a nose of the user. Such a mask 5802 can providepressurized air flow to both the nose and the mouth of the user.

The headgear 5804 can be coupled to the mask 5802 at one or moremounting locations or mounting points by any suitable arrangement,including the clips 5830 that are the same as or similar to the clips5030 of FIGS. 50-57, for example and without limitation. In someconfigurations, a lower strap 5818 and an upper strap 5820 are providedon each side of the headgear 5804 to connect the mask 5802 to a rearportion of the headgear 5804. Unless indicated otherwise, features ofthe interface assembly 5800 or portions thereof can be the same as orsimilar to other interfaces or portions thereof described herein, or canbe of another suitable arrangement.

The interface assembly 5800 of FIG. 58 includes an elasticated tether5840 that couples the clip 5830 to the mask 5802. The illustratedelastic tether 5840 is a cable or cord-like member that is coupledbetween the clip 5830 and the mask 5802 in a triangulated manner. Inparticular, a center portion of the elastic tether 5840 is coupled tothe mask 5802 and end portions of the elastic tether 5840 are coupled tothe clip 5830. Preferably, the elastic tether 5840 is configured to notonly retain the clip 5830 near the mask 5802 when the clip 5830 isdisengaged from the mask 5802, but also tends to locate the clip 5830properly relative to the mask 5802. For example, a tension on the upperand lower or the two end portions of the elastic tether 5840 can begenerally even when the clip 5830 is properly located relative to themask 5802. Thus, the elastic tether 5840 tends to pull the clip 5830into the proper position for engagement with the mask 5802.

The interface assembly 5800 of FIG. 59 includes an elasticated tether5840 in the form of a wide elastic strap. The elastic strap 5840 canextend from one side of the mask 5802 to the other. Each end of theelastic strap 5840 can connect to a clip 5830. An intermediate portionof the elastic strap 5840 can be secured to the mask 5802. For example,the mask frame 5802 can comprise a loop portion 5842 that forms apassage through which the elastic strap 5840 can pass. In someconfigurations, the elastic strap 5840 is loosely received in thepassage and is movable relative to the mask 5802. The clips 5830 canprevent the elastic strap 5840 from being disengaged from the mask 5802.

In the interface assemblies 5800 of FIGS. 58 and 59, the elastic tethers5840 are exposed. In some applications or uses, it may be desirable forthe elastic tether 5840 to be covered or concealed, at least when theclip 5830 is engaged with the mask 5802. The interface assembly 5800 ofFIGS. 60 and 61 conceals the elastic tether 5840 when the clip 5830 isengaged with the mask 5802. In the illustrated configuration, theelastic tether 5840 includes at least one and preferably a pair ofelastic elements. The elastic elements can be in the form of elasticstraps 5840, which can be spaced vertically from one another and extendgenerally in a fore-aft direction. In some configurations, the elasticstraps 5840 can be generally or substantially aligned with a respectiveone of the lower strap 5818 and the upper strap 5820 of the headgear5804.

The clip 5830 can capture the elastic straps 5840 between the clip 5830and the mask frame 5806 when the clip 5830 is engaged with the mask5802. In the illustrated arrangement, a first end of each elastic strap5840 is secured to a rearward end portion of the mask frame 5806 and asecond end of each elastic strap 5840 is secured to a forward end of theclip 5830. Such an arrangement permits the elastic straps 5840 to layrelatively flat between the mask frame 5806 and the clip 5830 and alsomaximizes the growth in the circumference of the interface assembly 5800permitted by the elastic straps 5840. The mask frame 5806 and/or theclip 5830 can include recesses 5844 that receive and at least partiallyaccommodate a thickness of the elastic straps 5840 when the clip 5830 isengaged with the mask 5802.

As described above, the elastic tethers 5840 can be configured to helpguide the clip 5830 to a proper location for engagement with the mask5802. However, in the configuration of FIGS. 60 and 61, the elasticstraps 5840 may not pull the clip 5830 all the way to the properposition for engagement with the mask 5802. That is, the clip 5830 canbe moved away from the engagement location by a distance generallyequivalent to an un-stretched length of the elastic straps 5840. In sucha configuration, or if desirable in any other configuration, theinterface assembly 5800 can include additional features to assist inlocation of the clip 5830 relative to the mask 5802. For example, one ormore magnets 5846 can be provided on the mask 5802, the clip 5830 orboth to facilitate location of the clip 5830 relative to the mask 5802.A single magnet arrangement can be used, but the other componenttypically will have a magnetically attractive material. In theillustrated arrangement, a magnet 5846 is provided at the forward endsof the recesses 5844 on the mask 5802 and clip 5830 (magnets 5846 notshown on the clip 5830). In addition, FIG. 61 illustrates an opening5848, which can be engaged by a suitable structure of the clip 5830,such as a hook or block (not shown).

FIGS. 62-64 illustrates an interface assembly 6200 that is of anelongating closed loop configuration, which permits the interfaceassembly 6200 to move between an expanded orientation and a contractedorientation. The interface assembly 6200 is similar to the interfaceassemblies 5800 of FIGS. 58-61 in that the circumference can be enlargedto facilitate application or removal; however, preferably, the interfaceassembly 6200 provides the ability to enlarge the circumference via anon-elasticated folding clasp 6240 in contrast to the elasticatedarrangements of FIGS. 58-61.

The illustrated interface assembly 6200 includes an interface 6202 and aheadgear 6204. The illustrated interface 6202 is a nasal-oral mask but,as described herein, other types of interfaces can be used with thedisclosed headgear 6204. The illustrated mask 6202 generally comprises aframe 6206 that supports a seal 6208. The mask 6202 can be connected toa supply conduit 6209, which can be used to supply breathing gases to auser. As described above, in some configurations, the mask 6202 can sealaround a mouth of a user and on an underside of a nose of the user. Sucha mask 6202 can provide pressurized air flow to both the nose and themouth of the user.

The headgear 6204 can be coupled to the mask 6202 at one or moremounting locations or mounting points 6210. Preferably, a lower strapportion 6218 and an upper strap portion 6220 are provided on one or bothsides of the headgear 6204 to connect the mask 6202 to a rear portion ofthe headgear 6204. In some configurations, the headgear 6204 can providefor adjustment in addition to the folding clasp 6240 or other elongationarrangement. With such an arrangement, the headgear 6204 can be adjustedto an appropriate or desired adjustment position separately from theaction of the folding clasp 6240, such that the folding clasp 6204 canbe used solely to facilitate application and, once properly adjusted,the headgear 6204 should not require readjustment with each applicationof the interface assembly 6200. Any suitable adjustment mechanism forthe headgear 6204 can be provided, such as folding over the straps 6218,6220 on one or both sides of the interface assembly 6200 afterengagement with the mask 6202 to create adjustment loops 6222 that canbe secured by any suitable fastener, such as a hook-and-loop fastener,for example.

The folding clasp 6240 can include multiple sections or segments thatare foldable relative to one another between a contracted (e.g., stackedor folded) orientation and an expanded (e.g., unfolded) orientation. Inthe illustrated arrangement, a first segment 6242 is defined or carriedby the mask 6202, such as by the mask frame 6206. A second segment 6244is defined by or carried by a member (e.g., a clip) coupled to theheadgear 6204 (e.g., one or both of the straps 6218, 6220). In someconfigurations, an third or intermediate segment 6246 is pivotallyconnected to the first segment 6242 at a first end and to the secondsegment 6244 at a second end. The pivot axes between the segments 6242,6244, 6246 preferably are aligned with one another and orientedperpendicular to a circumferential direction of the headgear6204/interface assembly 6200. Such an arrangement maintains the segments6242, 6244, 6246 in the proper plane relative to one another and, in theillustrated arrangement, maintains the forward portion of the headgear6204 in horizontal alignment with the mask 6202 to facilitate non-visuallocation of the second segment 6244 of the folding clasp 6240 in theunfolded orientation.

As illustrated in FIGS. 63 and 64, respectively, in the contractedorientation the segments 6242, 6244, 6246 are stacked relative to oneanother to have an increased overall thickness and reduced length and inthe expanded orientation the segments 6242, 6244, 6246 are unstacked andpositioned end-to-end to reduce the overall thickness and increase thelength. Folding clasps 6240 can be provided on one or both sides of theinterface assembly 6200. Preferably, when contracted or folded, thefolding clasp 6240 is located on the mask 6202 or forward of a rearwardedge of the mask 6202. Such an arrangement avoids contact between thefolding clasp 6240 and the user for increased comfort. In someconfigurations, the a locking mechanism (e.g., snap-fit arrangement) canbe provided to lock or retain the folding clasp 6240 in the closedposition or contracted orientation and inhibit or prevent unintentionalopening of the folding clasp 6240. A finger grip portion 6250 andcorresponding recessed portion 6260 can be provided on the clip 6230 andmask frame 6206, respectively, to facilitate opening of the foldingclasp 6240. Unless indicated otherwise, features of the interfaceassembly 6200 or portions thereof can be the same as or similar to otherinterfaces or portions thereof described herein, or can be of anothersuitable arrangement.

FIGS. 65-68 illustrate an interface assembly 6200 that is similar inmany respects to the interface assembly 6200 of FIGS. 62-64. Therefore,the same reference numbers are used to refer to the same orcorresponding components or features. In addition, the interfaceassembly 6200 of FIGS. 65-68 is described in the context of thedifferences relative to the interface assembly 6200 of FIGS. 62-64.Features of the interface assembly 6200 or portions thereof notspecifically described can be assumed to be the same as or similar tofeatures of the interface assembly 6200 of FIGS. 62-64, other interfacesor portions thereof described herein, or can be of another suitablearrangement.

The folding clasp 6240 of FIGS. 65-68 is more space efficient in atleast some respects compared to the folding clasp 6240 of FIGS. 62-64.In particular, the folding clasp 6240 of FIGS. 65-68 has an overallthickness that is substantially equal to a thickness of two of thesegments 6242, 6244, 6246 in a closed or folded configuration, asillustrated in FIG. 67. Any one or all of the segments 6242, 6244, 6246can define a height that is less than a height of the second segment6244. In some configurations, the height of the first segment 6242 canbe substantially equal to or less than a distance between the lowerstrap 6218 and the upper strap 6220 at a location where the straps 6218,6220 meet the mask 6202. The height of the second segment 6244 can besubstantially equal to or greater than a distance between a lower edgeof the lower strap 6218 and an upper edge of the upper strap 6220 at alocation where the straps 6218, 6220 meet the mask 6202. The secondsegment 6244 can have a generally U-shaped profile with a base 6270 anda pair of arms 6272. The arms 6272 can define a space 6270 therebetween,which can have a distance between the arms 6272 that is at least asgreat as a height of the first segment 6242. The intermediate segment6246 can be connected at one end to a rearward end of the first segment6242 and at a second end to a base 6270 of the second segment 6244. Theintermediate segment 6246 can be received within the space 6270 and canoverlap at least a portion of the first segment 6242 in a foldedorientation of the folding clasp 6240.

The folding clasp 6240 can comprise a locking mechanism, such as aresilient latch 6280, which engages a surface surrounding an opening6282 to secure the folding clasp 6240 in the closed position or foldedorientation. In the illustrated arrangement, the opening is defined bythe mask frame 6206 or first segment 6242 and the latch 6280 is carriedby the second segment 6244.

Rearward or free ends of the arms 6272 of the U-shaped second segment6244 can connect to the straps 6218, 6220 of the headgear 6204. Thestraps 6218, 6220 can be adjustable relative to the mask 6202 and/orfolding clasp 6240. For example, the straps 6218, 6220 can be folded todefine adjustment loops 6222. The adjustment loops 6222 can be securedby a locking mechanism, such as a locking lever 6284. The locking lever6284 can include an engagement portion 6286 that engages the loops 6222of the strap 6218, 6220 to selectively secure the strap 6218, 6220 inplace.

FIGS. 69-71 illustrates an interface assembly 6900 that is arranged andconfigured in accordance with certain features, aspects and advantagesof the present disclosure. The illustrated interface assembly 6900includes an alternative arrangement for providing adjustability and/orclosed-loop elongation functionality. In particular, the interfaceassembly 6900 incorporates one or more sliding buckle arrangements 6940that permits adjustment of a circumference of the interface assembly6900. Sliding buckle arrangements 6940 can be provided on one or bothsides of the interface assembly 6900.

Similar to other interface assemblies disclosed herein, the interfaceassembly 6900 includes an interface 6902 and a headgear 6904. Theillustrated interface 6902 is a nasal-oral mask but, as describedherein, other types of interfaces can be used with the disclosedheadgear 6904. The illustrated mask 6902 generally comprises a frame6906 that supports a seal 6908. The mask 6902 can be connected to asupply conduit 6909, which can be used to supply breathing gases to auser. As described above, in some configurations, the mask 6902 can sealaround a mouth of a user and on an underside of a nose of the user. Sucha mask 6902 can provide pressurized air flow to both the nose and themouth of the user.

The headgear 6904 can be coupled to the mask 6902 at one or moremounting locations or mounting points 6910 by any suitable arrangement,such as any of those disclosed herein. Preferably, a lower strap portion6918 and an upper strap portion 6920 are provided on each side of theheadgear 6904 to connect the mask 6902 to a rear portion of the headgear6904. In the illustrated configuration, a sliding buckle arrangement6940 is provided within each of the lower strap 6918 and the upper strap6920 to permit length adjustment of the straps 6918, 6920. Slidingbuckle arrangements 6940 can be provided on one or both sides of theheadgear 6904. FIGS. 70 and 71 illustrate a sliding buckle arrangement6940 within one of the straps 6918, 6920; however, other sliding bucklearrangements 6940 can be of the same or a similar construction.

The illustrated sliding buckle arrangement 6940 includes a buckle 6942having multiple posts 6944, which create a tortuous path for the strap6918, 6920. The strap 6918, 6920 can be engaged (directly or indirectly)with the mask 6902 and folded over onto itself to create an adjustmentloop 6946. An end of the adjustment loop 6946 is coupled to the buckle6942 such that movement of the buckle 6942 along the strap 6918, 6920varies the size of the adjustment loop 6946, or the length of theoverlap of the strap 6918, 6920, to adjust an effective length of thestrap 6918, 6920. The buckle 6942 can be moved in either direction alongthe strap 6918, 6920 to permit lengthening or shortening of the strap6918, 6920.

The buckle 6942 can include a finger grip tab or pull tab 6950 tofacilitate movement of the buckle 6942. The pull tab 6950 can include acoupler 6952 to allow the pull tab 6950 to be secured to the buckle 6942and/or strap 6918, 6920 when not in use. The illustrated coupler 6952 isa magnetic coupler; however, other suitable couplers could be used,including snaps, clips or hook-and-loop fastener, for example andwithout limitation. The pull tab 6950 can be generally centrally-locatedalong a length of the buckle 6942, such as rotatably supported by a post6954. FIG. 72 illustrates a sliding pull tab 6950 in which the post 6954is slidably supported within a slot 6956, which permits the pull tab6950 and post 6954 to move toward an end of the buckle 6942 in thedirection of travel or intended travel of the buckle 6942.

The sliding buckle arrangement 6940 can be utilized for closed-loopelongation or can be used for headgear 6904 adjustment and other openingarrangements can be provided, such as a clip 6930 that is removable fromthe mask 6902. The clip 6930 can be completely separable from the mask6902 (i.e., open loop) or can be tethered to the mask 6902 (i.e., closedloop). Unless indicated otherwise, features of the interface assembly6900 or portions thereof can be the same as or similar to otherinterfaces or portions thereof described herein, or can be of anothersuitable arrangement.

The elongating closed-loop arrangements described herein (such as inFIGS. 58-72, for example) preferably provide sufficient elongation in anopen state to permit removal and/or application of the associatedinterface assembly. As described, elongating arrangements can beprovided on one or both sides of the interface assembly. If provided ononly one side, preferably, the single elongating arrangement providessufficient elongation in an open state to permit removal and/orapplication of the associated interface assembly. If provided on bothsides, each elongating arrangement can provide sufficient elongation inan open state to permit removal and/or application of the associatedinterface assembly so that a user can elect to use one side or theother. In some configurations, however, each elongating arrangement canprovide a portion of the total elongation, which preferably issufficient to permit removal and/or application of the associatedinterface assembly; however, the elongation of either one of thearrangements may not be sufficient on its own to permit removal and/orapplication of the associated interface assembly. In someconfigurations, the total elongation between a closed state and an openstate is at least 100 millimeters. In elastic configurations, theelongation with the elastic element(s) in an unstretched state can beless than 100 millimeters, but can increase to at least 100 millimetersupon stretching of the elastic element(s). For example, in someconfigurations, the initial elongation can be about 30 millimeters withthe elastic element(s) unstretched and the elastic element(s) canstretch to provide at least 100 millimeters of total elongation. In someconfigurations, the initial elongation (without stretching) can be aboutone-third to about one-half of the total elongation (with stretching).

FIGS. 73 and 74 illustrate a contoured headgear arrangement 7300 incomponent parts (FIG. 73) and as assembled (FIG. 74). Many of theheadgear assemblies disclosed herein can be constructed in whole or inpart of a flexible material, such as a fabric or textile material, forexample. Such flexible materials often are in the form of a flat sheet,which can result in a semi-cylindrical shape or curvature about only oneaxis (a vertical axis) when formed into a headgear assembly. In someconfigurations, the disclosed headgear arrangements, including but notlimited to the headgear arrangement 7300, are curved about at least twoaxes (a vertical axis and one or more horizontal axes). Such anarrangement allows the headgear arrangement 7300 to better conform tothe user's head shape and, preferably, spread loads relatively evenlywithin an area of the headgear arrangement 7300 to reduce pressurepoints, such as line loads along the edges, for example. Such contouredheadgear arrangements 7300 can also tend to hold their shape when notfitted to a user, such as resisting gravitational forces and tangling,for example. Such partially or fully self-supporting constructions canmake the headgear arrangements 7300 and associated interface assemblieseasier to fit to a user.

In the illustrated arrangement, two or more components 7302 areassembled together by a suitable process (e.g., sewing, bonding,welding, etc.) to form a portion or an entirety of a headgeararrangement 7300. In some configurations, the components 7302 are in theform of flat patterns of textile material. The shape of the patterns7302 can be adjusted to create desired tension or compression in thematerial when the components 7302 are assembled. By adjusting theoutline shape of the flat pattern 7302, the assembled headgeararrangement 7300 can be made to fit more ergonomically to the user'shead shape. Such an arrangement can spread the loading more evenly overthe user's head.

In the illustrated configuration, a shape of edges 7304 that create avertical (e.g., rear) seam of the headgear arrangement 7300 are selectedto provide a desired final shape once assembled. For example, thepatterns 7302 can be mirror images of one another and can includecut-outs 7306 that together form an opening in the headgear arrangement7300 to accommodate, for example, a user's hair arranged in a ponytail.An upper portion 7310 of the patterns 7302 above the cut-out 7306 canhave a curved edge 7304 that curves outwardly in a direction from abottom to a top of the edge 7312. A lower portion 7320 of the patterns7302 below the cut-out 7306 can have a curved edge 7304 that curvesinwardly from a bottom to a top of the edge 7304. Overall, the edges7304 can cooperate to define a generally hourglass shape, as illustratedin FIG. 73. As illustrated in FIG. 74, such an arrangement, whenassembled, can result in an upper strap portion 7310 that curvesinwardly from bottom to top and a lower strap portion 7320 that has aconcave curvature. The lower strap portion 7320 can also generally moveinwardly from top to bottom. Such an arrangement can conform to theshape of the user's head, for example, the rear of the head. The lowerstrap portion 7320 can conform to the portion of the head formed by theoccipital bone and/or the upper neck. The upper strap portion 7310 canbe positioned higher, such as on a portion of the head formed by theparietal bone or a junction between the parietal bone and the occipitalbone. Although illustrated as edges 7304, portions of material can beconnected along sew lines or attachment lines that are not edges ofmaterial, but one or more of the sew lines or attachment lines can belocated in an intermediate portion of material.

FIGS. 75-79 illustrates an interface assembly 7500 that is arranged andconfigured in accordance with certain features, aspects and advantagesof the present disclosure. The illustrated interface assembly 7500includes an interface 7502 and a headgear 7504. The illustratedinterface 7502 is a nasal-oral mask but, as described herein, othertypes of interfaces can be used with the disclosed headgear 7504. Theillustrated mask 7502 generally comprises a frame 7506 that supports aseal 7508. The mask 7502 can be connected to a supply conduit (notshown), which can be used to supply breathing gases to a user. Asdescribed above, in some configurations, the mask 7502 can seal around amouth of a user and on an underside of a nose of the user. Such a mask7502 can provide pressurized air flow to both the nose and the mouth ofthe user.

The headgear 7504 can be coupled to the mask 7502 at one or moremounting locations or mounting points 7510. Preferably, at least aportion of the headgear 7504 comprises or is constructed from arelatively rigid material, such as a semi-rigid or rigid material. Asdescribed herein, preferably, the relatively rigid material resistssubstantial deformation in response to blow-off forces and, preferably,in response to hose pull forces and/or other expected external forces.For example and without limitation, the relatively rigid material can bepolycarbonate, nylon, ABS, polypropylene or other materials havingsimilar mechanical properties, especially with respect to rigidity. Insome configurations, at least a portion of the headgear 7504 thatcontacts the user's face is relatively rigid. As described furtherbelow, the relatively rigid portion(s) 7570 that contact the user's facecan be positioned on or near the user's cheeks, such as a portioncorresponding to the zygomatic and/or maxilla bones. In someconfigurations, the relatively rigid portions 7570 that contact theuser's face are positioned adjacent each side of an upper portion of themask 7502, such as generally rearward of the corresponding (e.g., upper)mounting points 7510. Such an arrangement can permit the headgear 7504to anchor onto or be supported on the user's face at the portions 7570so that tightening of the headgear 7504 tends to cause an increase inthe pressure applied to the user's face by the headgear 7504, withsubstantial compression of the mask seal 7508 avoided or limited.Rather, compression of the mask seal 7508 can be at least primarilycontrolled by the geometry of the interface assembly 7500 (and/or a sealadjustment mechanism, such as the arrangement described in connectionwith FIG. 92) instead of the force applied to the mask 7502 by theheadgear 7504. That is, the headgear 7504 can be configured to supportthe mask 7502 at a desired location relative to the user's face and thecontact of the rigid portions 7570 of the headgear 7504 with the user'sface can avoid or limit substantial compression of the seal 7508 inresponse to tightening of the headgear 7504. In other words, the rigidportions 7570 of the headgear 7504 may fix the distance between theuser's cheeks and the seal housing or frame 7506, thereby inhibiting orpreventing possible over-compression of the seal 7508 as a result oftightening of the headgear 7504. Preferably, forces created bytightening of the headgear 7504 are resisted at least in part by therelatively rigid portion(s) 7570 and not entirely by the mask seal 7508.In some configurations, the relatively rigid portion(s) 7570 providesignificantly greater resistance to tightening forces than the mask seal7508.

In some configurations, a lower strap portion 7518 and an upper armportion 7520 are provided on each side of the headgear 7504 to connectthe mask 7502 to a rear portion of the headgear 7504. The lower strap7518 and upper arm 7520 can connect to the mask 7502 at respective lowerand upper mounting locations 7510. In some configurations, the rigidportions 7570 can be defined by, secured to or otherwise carried by theupper arm 7520. The rigid portion 7570 of the upper arm 7520 cancomprise support arms 7572 that extend away from the user's face anddefine the mounting points 7510 between the headgear 7504 and the mask7502.

The headgear 7504 can also comprise a crown strap portion 7516 and arear strap portion 7550. The crown strap 7516 extends from respectiverearward ends of the upper arms 7520 across the top of the user's head.The rear strap portion 7550 extends from rearward ends of the upper arms7520 around the back of the user's head. The upper arm 7520, crown strap7516 and rear strap 7550 can converge at a location generally above anear of the user.

In some configurations, at least the upper arms 7520 comprise or areconstructed from a relatively rigid material. In some configurations, atleast portions of one or both of the crown strap 7516 and the rear strap7550 comprise or are constructed from a relatively rigid material. Inthe illustrated arrangement, at least portions of both of the crownstrap 7516 and the rear strap 7550 comprise or are constructed from arelatively rigid material. The upper arms 7520 and crown strap 7516(along with the mask 7502) can define a front halo portion 7512. Therear strap 7550 and the crown strap 7516 can define a rear halo portion7514. Preferably, the lower straps are constructed from a less rigidmaterial, such as a flexible material.

The headgear 7504 can provide for adjustment to allow the headgear 7504to be adjusted to fit an individual user. For example, one or moreadjustment mechanisms 7540 can be provided to within portions of theheadgear 7504, such as one or both of the crown strap 7516 and the rearstrap 7550. In the illustrated configuration, each of the crown strap7516 and the rear strap 7550 comprise an adjustment mechanism 7540,which permits a length of the straps 7516, 7550 to be adjusted. Thus,adjustment of a circumference of each of the front halo portion 7512 andthe rear halo portion 7514 is permitted. The adjustment mechanism 7540can comprise a flexible strap section 7542 within the straps 7516, 7550.Each flexible strap section 7542 can comprise a portion that doublesover onto itself to form an adjustment loop 7544. The adjustment loop7544 can be secured by any suitable fastener, such as a hook-and-loopfastener, for example.

In the illustrated configuration, the headgear 7504 includes tworelatively rigid sections 7546, each including one of the upper arms7520, a portion of the crown strap 7516 and a portion of the rear strap7550. The rigid sections 7546 can be substantial mirror images of oneanother and can be shaped to conform to the shape of a user's head.Thus, the rigid sections 7546 can comprise curved shapes at any or allof forward, rearward and upper end portions and can be less curved in acentral portion, which can be positioned generally on the side of theuser's head. Such shaping can provide feedback to the user for properplacement of the headgear 7504 on the head and/or can reduce oreliminate pressure points when the headgear 7504 is slept on.

In some configurations, portions or a substantial entirety of the rigidsections 7546 can be partially or completely covered by a pad 7590. Thepad 7590 can be constructed of any suitable material for increasingcomfort for the user. The pad 7590, for example and without limitation,can be constructed from silicone, thermoplastic elastomer, thermoplasticpolyurethane, other materials with similar mechanical properties,cloth-type materials (cloth covered foam), rubber/foam materials orother suitable soft materials. In some applications, it may be desirablefor the pad 7590 to provide increased friction with the user's skin. Asdescribed above, one suitable material for a pad 7590 is silicone, whichmay be overmolded or otherwise applied onto the rigid sections 7546. Ifdesired, the silicone or other material used for the pad 7590 can bemechanically interfaced with the rigid sections 7546, such as byincluding openings or depressions in the rigid sections 7546 that arefilled with the pad 7590 material to interlock the pad 7590 with therigid section 7546. In some configurations, the pad 7590 is providedonly on a skin-contacting side of a portion or a substantial entirety ofthe rigid sections 7546. However, in the illustrated arrangement, thepad 7590 completely surrounds the rigid sections 7546.

Ends of the crown strap 7516 and rear strap 7550 of each rigid section7546 can comprise one or more connectors, such as one or more loops7548, which can provide for coupling of the flexible strap sections 7542to the rigid sections 7546. The ends of the rear strap 7550 include twoloops 7548. One loop 7548 allows coupling of the flexible strap section7542 to the rigid section 7546 and the second loop 7548 allows couplingof the lower strap 7518 to the rigid section 7546. The loops 7548 can beoriented to direct the flexible strap sections 7542 in a desireddirection. The loops 7548 of the crown strap 7516 and the loop of therear strap 7550 for the flexible strap section 7542 can be oriented withthe slot of the loop 7548 generally perpendicular to an axial directionof the strap 7516, 7550.

In some configurations, the mask 7502 is coupled to the upper strap 7520by a rotational coupling 7560, which can be the same as or similar toany of the rotational couplings disclosed herein, such as the rotationalcoupling 1900 of FIG. 19, the rotational coupling 2944 of FIGS. 29 and30 or the rotational couplings of FIGS. 35 and 36, for example andwithout limitation. Other suitable rotational couplings could also beused. The rotational coupling 7560 defines a pivot axis of the mask7502. In some configurations, the lower strap 7518 can be used to securethe mask 7502 in a desired rotational position. In other configurations,the mask 7502 can be secured in a desired rotational position by anothersuitable mechanism, such as the detent rotational coupling 1900 of FIG.19 or a separate lock, and the lower strap 7518 could be omitted. Unlessindicated otherwise, features of the interface assembly 7500 or portionsthereof can be the same as or similar to other interfaces or portionsthereof described herein, or can be of another suitable arrangement.

FIG. 80 illustrates the flexible strap section 7542 of the rear strap7550 with a break-fit arrangement 8000 incorporated therein to permitquick transition of the rear strap 7550 between an elongated orientationand a tightened orientation. As described herein, such an arrangementcan permit the rear strap 7550 to be adjusted to a desired length withthe break-fit arrangement 8000 connected or in the tightenedorientation. The break-fit arrangement 8000 can be disconnected or movedto the elongated orientation to permit removal or donning of theinterface assembly 7500. Once donned, the break-fit arrangement 8000 canbe connected to move the rear strap 7550 to the tightened orientation,which preferably results in a proper fit without requiring adjustment ofthe rear strap 7550 with each application of the interface assembly7500. A break-fit arrangement 8000 can be provided in any of theflexible strap sections 7542 or within any other portion of the headgear7504 or interface assembly 7500.

The illustrated break-fit arrangement 8000 includes a snap buckle orrelease buckle 8002 interposed within the rear strap 7550. The buckle8002 can be positioned at one end of the flexible strap section 7542 orcan be within the flexible strap section 7542. Preferably, a leash ortether 5804 can be provided to couple the portions of the rear strap7550 that are separated by the break-fit arrangement 8000 to facilitatelocation of the separated portions of the rear strap 7550 even when theportions are not visible to the user. The tether 8004 preferably has alength that is sufficient to permit the headgear 7504/interface assembly7500 to be applied to the user's head. In some configurations, thetether 8004 can be constructed from an elastic material, which permitselongation of the tether 8004 for application of the interface assembly7500 and then moves the portions of the rear strap 7550 closer togetherto facilitate connection of the break-fit arrangement 8000. Othersuitable break-fit arrangements could also be utilized, such as any ofthose described herein, for example and without limitation.

FIGS. 81-83 illustrate an interface assembly having relatively rigidsupport portions which support the interface assembly relative to theuser's head to provide at least some isolation of the interface fromforces applied to tighten the headgear. Such an interface assembly maybe the same as or substantially similar to the interface assembly 7500and is described in that context using the same reference numbers. FIG.81 is a top view of a portion of the user's face with the interfaceassembly 7500 applied. The left side of FIG. 81 (from the perspective ofthe viewer) illustrates the interface assembly 7500 in a less tensionedor less tightened state and the right side of FIG. 81 illustrates theinterface assembly 7500 in a more tensioned or more tightened staterelative to the left side to illustrate the result of an application oftensioning or tightening force to the interface assembly 7500.

With respect to the left side of FIG. 81, in a less tightened state, therigid portion 7570 of the upper arm 7520 can lightly contact the user'sface or, in some cases, may not contact the user's face. For example,under some conditions, the mask seal 7508 can hold the rigid portion7570 away from the user's face. Preferably, at least a portion of themask seal 7508 extends rearwardly of the forward-most edge of the rigidportion 7570 or a projection of the rigid portion 7570 to ensure thatthe seal 7508 contacts the user's face. The support arm 7572 holds themask 7502 at a desired location relative to the headgear 7504 and/or theuser's face.

The right side of FIG. 81 illustrates the result of a tightening forcebeing applied to the interface assembly 7500 or headgear 7504, which isillustrated by the arrows in FIG. 81. The tightening force tends to pullthe mask 7502 towards the user's face. However, unlike many interfaceassemblies, the rigid portion 7570 of the illustrated interface assembly7500 contacts the user's face to limit rearward movement of the mask7502 and, thus, limit compression of the mask seal 7508. As illustrated,the pad 7590 (if provided) can be compressed as a result of appliedtightening force, but the underlying rigid portion 7570 can inhibit orprevent further rearward movement once the pad 7590 is compressed.

With reference to FIGS. 82 and 83, preferably, the rigid portions 7570contact a portion of the user's head that can provide resistance torearward movement of the mask 7502. In some configurations, the rigidportions 7570 contact a forward-facing portion of the user's head orface. In the illustrated arrangement, the rigid portions 7570 contactthe user's cheeks. FIGS. 82 and 83 are front and top views,respectively, of a user's face illustrating one desired contact area8200 for the rigid portions 7570, which preferably encompasses thelocation indicated by the dot 8202. The area 8200 can be located on theuser's zygomatic and/or maxilla bone. The dot 8202 can be located oneither one of the zygomatic or maxilla bone, but in at least someconfigurations is located on the maxilla. Placing the rigid portions7570 close to the user's nose may be advantageous to maximize resistanceto rearward movement of the rigid portions 7570 and, thus, the mask7502. However, as is apparent from FIGS. 81-83, the shape and/or size ofthe mask 7502 may limit the available locations for the rigid portions7570. Therefore, in some configurations, the rigid portions 7570 arelocated as close to the user's nose as possible in view of the size andshape of the particular mask 7502 or other interface that is used orwith which the headgear 7504 is intended for use.

As described above, in some configurations, the mask 7502 can berotatably supported by the headgear 7504. Preferably, the arms 7572 ofthe headgear 7504 are configured to position a pivot axis of the mask7502 at a desired location relative to the user's face and/or the rigidportions 7570 of the headgear 7504. With reference to FIGS. 84 and 85,in some configurations, the pivot axis 8400 of the mask 7502 is locatedbelow the user's nose. Preferably, the pivot axis 8400 is located belowthe user's nose and above the user's upper lip. In some configurations,the pivot axis 8400 can be positioned generally at a junction betweenthe underside of the user's nose and the user's upper lip area. Inpractice, location of the pivot axis 8400 may vary from the preferredlocation due to differences in facial geometry within the overall userpopulation. However, the location of the pivot axis 8400 will besufficiently close to the preferred location such that the mask seal7508 will seal against the underside of the user's nose. As describedabove, and illustrated in FIG. 85, the mask 7502 can rotate about thepivot axis 8400 to adjust to the user's facial geometry (e.g., chinshape) and to properly seal against the user's face. The mask 7502 canbe secured in the desired rotational position relative to the pivot axis8400 by any suitable arrangement, such as the bottom strap 7518, forexample and without limitation.

FIGS. 86a-86g illustrate several possible cross-sectional arrangementsfor the rigid sections 7546 and/or rigid portions 7570 of the headgear7504 in configurations having a pad 7590, with the bottom surface beingthe skin contact surface. In FIG. 86a , the rigid section 7547/rigidportion 7570 is generally oval in cross-sectional shape. The pad 7590completely surrounds the rigid section 7547/rigid portion 7570 anddefines a generally or substantially flat skin contact surface. Asurface opposite the skin contact surface has a convex curved shape as aresult of the pad 7590 extending over the rigid section 7547/rigidportion 7570. The pad 7590 includes lateral side portions (relative tothe orientation in FIG. 86a ) extending outward from the rigid section7547/rigid portion 7570. The arrangement of FIG. 86b is substantiallysimilar to the arrangement of FIG. 86a , except the rigid section7547/rigid portion 7570 is rectangular or square in cross-sectionalshape in FIG. 86 b.

FIG. 86c illustrates an arrangement having a generally oval rigidsection 7547/rigid portion 7570 covered by a generally oval pad 7590.The pad 7590 can have lateral side portions than are thicker than theportions above and below the rigid section 7547/rigid portion 7570. FIG.86d illustrates an arrangement having a generally oval rigid section7547/rigid portion 7570 and a pad 7590 that defines a generally flatskin contacting surface. One lateral end of the pad 7590 can be curvedand generally match the shape of the rigid section 7547/rigid portion7570 and the other lateral end of the pad 7590 can have a tapered shape.

FIGS. 86e-86g illustrate arrangements having a generally flat strap orflat rectangular shaped rigid section 7547/rigid portion 7570. In FIG.86e , the pad 7590 covers each end of the rigid section 7547/rigidportion 7570 and leaves a center portion of the rigid section 7547/rigidportion 7570 uncovered. In FIG. 86f , the pad 7590 covers both ends anda skin contact side of the rigid section 7547/rigid portion 7570, with acenter portion of the side opposite the skin contact side of the rigidsection 7547/rigid portion 7570 uncovered. In FIG. 86g , the pad 7590does not cover the skin contact surface. However, preferably, the pad7590 covers all other surfaces of the rigid section 7547/rigid portion7570. Such arrangements are merely examples. Other suitable arrangementscan also be used.

FIG. 87 is a side view of a user with the rigid section 7547 of theheadgear 7504 positioned on the user. As described herein, many of theinterface assemblies generally define one or both of a front haloportion and a rear halo portion. The headgear 7504 defines both a fronthalo portion 7512 and a rear halo portion 7514, each of which define agenerally halo shape. As illustrated in FIG. 87, the halo shape of thehalo portions 7512, 7514 does not necessarily coincide with the physicalstructure of the headgear 7504 throughout the entire circumference ofthe halo shape. However, the physical structure of the headgear 7504alone or in combination with the mask 7502 or other interface preferablydefines a closed loop for each halo portion 7512, 7514. Many differentphysical shapes to accomplish the halo portions 7512, 7514 are possible.

FIGS. 88a -88f illustrate approximate shapes of a headgear that can formboth a front halo portion 8812 and a rear halo portion 8814. Theheadgear can include additional structures, as well, such as lower maskstraps, for example. In FIG. 88a , the front halo portion 8812 and therear halo portion 8814 meet at the top of the user's head. In someconfigurations, an ear strap portion 8816 can extend over the user's earbetween the front halo portion 8812 and the rear halo portion 8814. InFIG. 88b , the rear halo portion 8814 is a generally continuous circularshape. The front halo portion 8812 curves over the user's ear tointersect with the rear halo portion 8814, in a manner similar to theear strap portion 8816 of FIG. 88a . However, the upper part of the rearhalo portion 8814 above the intersection with the lower front haloportion 8812 also defines an upper part of the front halo portion 8812.

In FIG. 88c , the headgear has a front strap portion 8820, a rear strapportion 8850 and a crown strap portion 8816. The crown strap 8816 passesdirectly over the top of the user's head from ear to ear. The crownstrap 8816 forms a portion of each of the front halo portion 8812 andthe rear halo portion 8814 in combination with the front strap 8820 andthe rear strap 8850, respectively. In FIG. 88d , each of the front haloportion 8812 and the rear halo portion 8814 is substantially circular inshape. The front halo portion 8812 and the rear halo portion 8814 crossover one another at a location generally above the user's ear such thatan upper portion of the front halo portion 8812 is rearward of an upperportion of the rear halo portion 8814.

In FIG. 88e , the front halo portion 8812 is substantially circular andthe rear strap 8850 extends from one side of the front halo portion 8812to the other passing over the user's ears and around the back of thehead. The rear strap 8850 and the upper part of the front halo portion8812 form the rear halo portion 8814. In FIG. 88f , the rear haloportion 8814 is substantially circular and the front straps 8820 curvedfrom a side of the rear halo portion 8814 passing above the user's earsand toward the underside of the nose. The upper part of the rear haloportion 8814 and the front straps 8820 cooperate to form the front haloportion 8812 (along with the mask or other interface). The headgear ofFIG. 88f is substantially similar to the headgear of FIG. 88d with theupper part of the front halo portion 8812 removed. The shapes of FIGS.88a-88f are merely examples of possible headgear having front haloportions 8812 and rear halo portions 8814. Other shapes are alsopossible.

As described herein, the various interface assemblies can includebreak-fit assemblies that permit the interface assembly to beconveniently enlarged to facilitate application and removal. Preferably,the break-fit assemblies permit application and removal of the interfaceassemblies without readjustment upon each application. FIGS. 89a-89fillustrate various possible locations for the break-fit assemblieswithin the headgear. FIGS. 89a and 89b illustrate a break-fit assembly8900 within a rear halo portion, such as a rear strap 8950 of theheadgear, which extends around the back of the user's head. FIG. 89aillustrates the break-fit assembly 8900 in a connected state and FIG.89b illustrates the break-fit assembly 8900 in a disconnected state.Optionally, the portions 8902, 8904 of the break-fit assembly 8900 canbe coupled by a tether 8910 that limits separation of the portions 8902,8904 and can facilitate non-visual location of the portions 8902, 8904for reconnection. In some configurations, the tether 8910 iselasticated.

FIGS. 89c and 89d illustrate a break-fit assembly 8900 in a front haloportion, such as an upper strap 8920 of the headgear. FIG. 89cillustrates the break-fit assembly 8900 in a connected state and FIG.89d illustrates the break-fit assembly 8900 in a disconnected state. Theportions 8902, 8904 of the break-fit assembly 8900 can optionally becoupled by a tether 8910, which can be elasticated in someconfigurations.

FIGS. 89e and 89f illustrate a break-fit assembly 8900 between a fronthalo portion 8912 and a rear halo portion 8914 of the headgear. Forexample, the break-fit assembly 8900 can be positioned at anintersection of a rear strap portion 8950, an upper strap portion 8920and a crown strap portion 8916. The break-fit assembly 8900 can permitat least limited separation of the front halo portion 8912 and the rearhalo portion 8914 to facilitate application or removal of the headgear.In some configurations, the front halo portion 8912 and the rear haloportion 8914 do not completely separate and, therefore, a tether is notprovided. However, if desired, a tether could be provided whether or notthe front halo portion 8912 and the rear halo portion 8914 completelyseparate.

With reference to FIG. 90, a headgear 9004 is illustrated that issimilar to other headgear arrangements disclosed herein. The headgear9004 has a front or upper strap or arm portion 9020, a crown strapportion 9016 and a rear strap portion 9050. Although not illustrated,the headgear 9004 could include additional structural portions, such asa lower strap portion, for example. Similar to the headgear 7504 of theinterface assembly 7500, preferably at least a portion of the headgear9004 is relatively rigid, such as rigid or semi-rigid. In theillustrated arrangement, at least the upper arm 9020 is relativelyrigid. Preferably, a rearward portion of the upper arm 9020 that isdivided and forms initial portions of the crown strap 9016 and the rearstrap 9050 is also relatively rigid and can be of a unitary constructionwith the remainder of the upper arm 9020. As illustrated, the upper arm9020 is curved. Preferably, the upper arm 9020 is sufficiently rigid toinhibit substantial deformation of the curved shape at least in responseto blow-off forces.

Preferably, at least the initial curved portions 9052 of the rear strap9050 rearward of the user's ears (end portions of the rear strap 9050indicated with dashed lines) are constructed from at least a semi-rigidmaterial to resist deformation of the curved shape at least in responseto blow-off forces. In some configurations, the portions 9052 areconstructed from a rigid material, which can be the same material as theupper arm 9020. The portions 9052 can be unitarily formed with the upperarms 9020. The remaining portions 9016 a, 9050 a of the crown strap 9016and the rear strap 9050, respectively, can be constructed from arelatively rigid material or a non-rigid material. As illustrated, theportions 9016 a and 9050 a are subject to primarily axial forces.Accordingly, flexible or non-rigid materials can be used if desired,such as for comfort reasons.

FIG. 91 illustrates an interface assembly 9100 comprising an interface9102 and a headgear 9104. The interface 9102 (shown schematically) canbe any suitable interface 9102, such as a nasal-oral mask that can sealaround a mouth of a user and on an underside of a nose of the user, forexample. The mask 9102 can be similar to any of the interfaces/masksdisclosed herein. However, other types of interfaces can be used withthe disclosed headgear 9104. The illustrated headgear 9104 is coupled tothe mask 9102 at a mounting location or mounting point 9110 on each sideof the mask 9102. Preferably, the mask 9102 is coupled to the headgear9104 by a rotational coupling 9144, which can be of any suitablearrangement, such as any of the rotational couplings herein. Preferably,the rotational coupling 9144 can be locked in a desired rotationalposition. For example, the rotational coupling 9144 can include a detentarrangement, such as the arrangement described with respect to FIG. 19,for example. The rotational coupling 9144 could be manually locked inthe desired rotational position. Other suitable arrangements could alsobe used.

Preferably, the rotational coupling 9144 can be secured in place withouta lower strap portion. However, if desired, the headgear 9104 caninclude a lower strap portion. The illustrated headgear 9104 includes anupper strap portion 9120 on each side of the headgear 9104 to connectthe mask 9102 to a rear portion of the headgear 9104. The headgear 9104can also include a crown strap 9116 and a rear strap 9150. Unlessindicated otherwise, features of the interface assembly 9100 or portionsthereof can be the same as or similar to other interfaces or portionsthereof described herein, or can be of another suitable arrangement.

FIG. 92 illustrates an interface assembly 7500 that is similar in manyrespects to the interface assembly 7500 of FIGS. 75-79. Therefore, thesame reference numbers are used to refer to the same or correspondingcomponents or features. In addition, the interface assembly 7500 of FIG.92 is described in the context of the differences relative to theinterface assembly 7500 of FIGS. 75-79. Features of the interfaceassembly 7500 or portions thereof not specifically described can beassumed to be the same as or similar to features of the interfaceassembly 7500 of FIGS. 75-79, other interfaces or portions thereofdescribed herein, or can be of another suitable arrangement.

The illustrated interface assembly 7500 includes an interface 7502 and aheadgear 7504. The illustrated interface 7502 is a nasal-oral mask but,as described herein, other types of interfaces can be used with thedisclosed headgear 7504. The illustrated mask 7502 generally comprises aframe 7506 that supports a seal 7508. The mask 7502 can be connected toa supply conduit (not shown), which can be used to supply breathinggases to a user. As described above, in some configurations, the mask7502 can seal around a mouth of a user and on an underside of a nose ofthe user. Such a mask 7502 can provide pressurized air flow to both thenose and the mouth of the user.

As described herein, the headgear 7504 preferably supports the mask 7502at a desired location relative to the headgear 7504 and the mask 7502 isat least partially isolated from tightening of the headgear 7504. Thatis, tightening of the headgear 7504 does not substantially alter aposition of the mask 7502 relative to the user's face. Thus, in theillustrated arrangement, the mask 7502 includes a seal adjustmentarrangement 9200, which permits a position of the seal 7508 to beadjusted relative to the frame 7506. Such an arrangement permits theposition of the seal 7508 to be micro-adjusted to accommodate variationsin facial geometry. Preferably, rotational adjustment of the mask 7502is also permitted.

The illustrated seal adjustment arrangement 9200 includes a threadedtube 9202 that is coupled to the mask seal 7508. The tube 9202 can becoupled to the supply conduit and can deliver breathing gases from thesupply conduit to the interior of the seal 7508. A dial 9204 can besupported by the mask frame 7502 and can include internal threads thatmate with the threads of the tube 9202. Rotation of the dial 9204 cancause translation or linear movement of the seal 7508 toward and awayfrom the mask frame 7506. Other suitable adjustment mechanisms can alsobe used. Examples of similar adjustment arrangements are disclosed inPCT Publication No. WO2004/052,438, the entirety of which isincorporated by reference herein.

FIG. 93 illustrates an interface assembly 7500 that is similar in manyrespects to the interface assembly 7500 of FIGS. 75-79. Therefore, thesame reference numbers are used to refer to the same or correspondingcomponents or features. In addition, the interface assembly 7500 of FIG.93 is described in the context of the differences relative to theinterface assembly 7500 of FIGS. 75-79. Features of the interfaceassembly 7500 or portions thereof not specifically described can beassumed to be the same as or similar to features of the interfaceassembly 7500 of FIGS. 75-79, other interfaces or portions thereofdescribed herein, or can be of another suitable arrangement.

The illustrated interface assembly 7500 includes an interface 7502 and aheadgear 7504. The illustrated interface 7502 is a nasal-oral mask but,as described herein, other types of interfaces can be used with thedisclosed headgear 7504. The illustrated mask 7502 generally comprises aframe 7506 that supports a seal 7508. The mask 7502 can be connected toa supply conduit (not shown), which can be used to supply breathinggases to a user. As described above, in some configurations, the mask7502 can seal around a mouth of a user and on an underside of a nose ofthe user. Such a mask 7502 can provide pressurized air flow to both thenose and the mouth of the user.

The headgear 7504 can be coupled to the mask 7502 at one or moremounting locations or mounting points 7510. Preferably, a lower strapportion 7518 and an upper arm portion 7520 are provided on each side ofthe headgear 7504 to connect the mask 7502 to a rear portion of theheadgear 7504. The mask 7502 can be rotatably supported relative to theupper arm 7520 with the lower strap 7518 fixing a rotational position ofthe mask 7502. Unless indicated otherwise, features of the interfaceassembly 7500 or portions thereof can be the same as or similar to otherinterfaces or portions thereof described herein, or can be of anothersuitable arrangement.

The illustrated interface assembly 7500 includes an enlarged and/orcontoured relatively rigid or cheek-contacting portion 7570. Such anarrangement can increase the ability of the headgear 7504 to anchor onthe face of the user and at least partially isolate the mask 7502 fromthe adjustment of the headgear 7504. Such an arrangement can also spreadthe load applied to the user's face over a larger area for improvedcomfort. In some configurations, the portion 7570 is formed by the pad7590 that covers the underlying rigid section 7546.

To facilitate application and removal of the interface assembly 7500, aquick-release mechanism 9300 can be provided to move the interfaceassembly 7500 to an enlarged circumference or open state. Thequick-release mechanism 9300 can be of any suitable arrangement, such asany of the arrangements of FIGS. 50-72 or any others disclosed herein,for example and without limitation. In the illustrated arrangement, thequick-release mechanism 9300 comprises a clip 9302 that can bedisconnected from the remainder of the mask 7502. In someconfigurations, the clip 9302 can be tethered or otherwise coupled tothe remainder of the mask 7502 in the disconnected state to facilitatereconnection of the clip 9302.

Although the present invention has been described in terms of a certainembodiments, other embodiments apparent to those of ordinary skill inthe art also are within the scope of this invention. Thus, variouschanges and modifications may be made without departing from the spiritand scope of the invention. For instance, various components may berepositioned as desired. Moreover, not all of the features, aspects andadvantages are necessarily required to practice the present invention.

In addition, some portions of one assembly could be used with otherportions of other assemblies to provide further assemblies notexplicitly shown herein. For example, straps or portions of straps ofone assembly may be used with a halo or the like from another assembly.Any of the various quick-release arrangements can be utilized with anyof the headgear assemblies disclosed herein. Any of the rotationalconnections between the interface and the headgear can be used with anyof the headgear assemblies disclosed herein. Any break-fit assembliescan be incorporated into any of the interface assemblies disclosedherein. In general, any feature from interface assembly can beincorporated into any other interface assembly to the extent possible orapparent to those skilled in the art. Such further variations should beconsidered expressly contained herein. Accordingly, the scope of thepresent invention is intended to be defined only by the claims thatfollow.

1-70. (canceled)
 71. An interface assembly, comprising: a nasal-oralmask; and a headgear; wherein the mask comprises: a seal that isconfigured to seal around a mouth of a user and on an underside of anose of the user; a frame supporting the seal; and a support portionthat extends upwardly from the frame and supports an upper portion ofthe seal, the support portion being positioned on a lateral side of theupper portion of the seal to support the seal and configured to maintainthe seal in contact with the user's nose when the seal is pressurized;wherein the support portion is removably coupled to the frame; andwherein the headgear is coupled to the mask at one or more mountingpoints and comprises a first strap portion provided on each side of theheadgear to connect the mask to a rear portion of the headgear.
 72. Theinterface assembly of claim 71, wherein the first strap portions on eachside of the headgear are configured to pass below an ear of the user.73. The interface assembly of claim 71, wherein each strap portion isrotatably coupled to the mask.
 74. The interface assembly of claim 71,wherein the support portions comprise paddles.
 74. The interfaceassembly of claim 74, wherein the paddles comprise silicone.
 76. Theinterface assembly of claim 74, wherein the paddles are a portion of orconnected to the frame.
 77. The interface assembly of claim 71, whereinthe headgear further comprises a top strap that extends upwardly from acenter of the mask.
 78. The interface assembly of claim 71, wherein thefirst strap portions comprise arms rotatably coupled to the mask, thearms comprising an adjustment arrangement, the adjustment arrangementcomprising a first arm portion and a second arm portion slidably ortelescopically engaged with one another, the adjustment arrangementcomprising a lock arrangement.
 79. The interface assembly of claim 71,wherein the rear portion comprises a halo portion.
 80. The interfaceassembly of claim 79, wherein the rear portion comprises a cradlestructure that extends in a vertical direction along the back of theuser's head.
 81. The interface assembly of claim 71, wherein the supportportion is a portion of the frame.
 82. The interface assembly of claim71, wherein the interface assembly comprises a clip comprising ahook-shaped end portion between the mask and the headgear.
 83. Aninterface assembly, comprising: a nasal-oral mask; and a headgearcoupled to the mask at one or more mounting points; wherein the maskcomprises: a frame; a seal that is configured to seal around a mouth ofa user and on an underside of a nose of the user; and a support thatextends upwardly from the frame along each side of a nose portion of theseal to provide lateral support to the nose portion of the seal, thesupport portion being removably coupled to the frame.
 84. The interfaceassembly of claim 83, wherein the supports are permanently coupled tothe frame.
 85. The interface assembly of claim 83, wherein the supportsare removably coupled to the frame.
 86. The interface assembly of claim83, wherein the headgear comprises a lower strap portion and an upperstrap portion provided on each side of the headgear to connect the maskto a rear portion of the headgear.
 87. The interface assembly of claim86, wherein the lower strap and the upper strap on at least one side ofthe mask are coupled to the mask by a single clip.
 88. The interfaceassembly of claim 87, wherein the clip and the frame are configured in acomplementary manner to facilitate location of the clip for engagementwith the mask and/or to inhibit undesired disengagement of the clip fromthe mask.
 89. The interface assembly of claim 88, wherein the framecomprises one or more edges that cooperate to define a recess forreceiving the clip.
 90. The interface assembly of claim 86, wherein themask comprises an opening for at least one of the upper and lower strapportions to pass through.
 91. The interface assembly of claim 83,wherein the headgear comprises upper and lower straps, the upper strapcomprising or being coupled to a crown strap and an upper rear strap,the lower strap comprising or being coupled to a rear portion.